Richards Pond, located in Kanabec County, Minnesota, is a privately owned dam that serves multiple purposes including flood control and water storage. The earth dam, with a height of 12 feet and a length of 691 feet, was completed in 1967 and has a normal storage capacity of 30 acre-feet. Despite its low hazard potential, the dam's condition assessment in 2016 rated as poor, raising concerns about its structural integrity and the need for maintenance.

Managed by the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources, Richards Pond is regulated, inspected, and enforced by state agencies to ensure its compliance with safety and environmental standards. The dam's location on the Knife River-TR stream contributes to its drainage area of 8.5 square miles and a maximum discharge capacity of 485 cubic feet per second. While the pond covers a surface area of 33 acres, its primary source agency is the state of Minnesota, indicating local oversight and responsibility.

Although Richards Pond may be classified as having a low hazard potential, its poor condition assessment underscores the importance of regular inspections and maintenance to ensure the safety of the surrounding community and the conservation of water resources. As climate change continues to impact water availability and quality, it is crucial for stakeholders to prioritize the upkeep of dams like Richards Pond to mitigate potential risks and safeguard the environment for future generations.