Heft Pond, located in Aitkin, Minnesota, is a private fish and wildlife pond designed by the USDA NRCS in 1968. The pond serves as a crucial habitat for various aquatic species and covers a surface area of 15 acres with a maximum storage capacity of 105 acre-feet. With a low hazard potential and moderate risk assessment rating, Heft Pond plays a significant role in the local ecosystem while posing minimal safety concerns.

The dam at Heft Pond is primarily made of earth and stone, with a height of 7 feet and a length of 600 feet. It has an uncontrolled spillway type, allowing for a maximum discharge of 40 cubic feet per second. While the pond is not state-regulated or inspected, its condition is currently not rated. Despite the lack of formal assessments, the pond continues to provide valuable ecological services and recreational opportunities for the surrounding community. For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Heft Pond stands as a testament to the importance of sustainable water management practices in supporting biodiversity and ecosystem resilience in the face of changing climate conditions.