Little Trout Detention No. 2, also known as Richard Hartwick Detention, is a privately owned earth dam located in Pickwick, Minnesota. Constructed in 1972 by the USDA NRCS, this dam serves the primary purpose of flood risk reduction along the Little Trout Creek. With a dam height of 29 feet and a length of 539 feet, it has a capacity to store 85 acre-feet of water and can handle a maximum discharge of 120 cubic feet per second.

Managed by the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources, this dam is state-regulated and undergoes regular inspections to ensure its structural integrity and functionality. Despite being classified as having a low hazard potential, the condition assessment of the dam was deemed satisfactory during the last inspection in May 2017. With a moderate risk rating, measures for risk management and emergency preparedness are yet to be fully documented for this structure.

For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Little Trout Detention No. 2 presents an opportunity to explore the intersection of infrastructure, hydrology, and environmental stewardship. As a vital component in the local flood management system, understanding the design, operation, and regulation of this dam can provide valuable insights into how human intervention shapes water dynamics in a changing climate. With its location in a picturesque setting near the Little Trout Creek, this dam serves as a tangible reminder of the intricate relationship between water resources and community resilience.