Pickwick Mill, located in Pickwick, Minnesota, along the Big Trout Creek, is an historic gravity dam completed in 1854 for flood risk reduction. With a height of 33 feet and a length of 231 feet, this structure serves a critical purpose in protecting the surrounding area from potential flooding events. Despite its age, the dam has a storage capacity of 124 acre-feet and can handle a maximum discharge of 2820 cubic feet per second.

However, recent assessments have indicated that the condition of Pickwick Mill is poor, with a significant hazard potential. The last inspection in 2018 revealed the need for maintenance and potential upgrades to ensure the dam's continued effectiveness in flood risk reduction. With its state-regulated status, the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources is responsible for permitting, inspecting, and enforcing regulations related to the dam's operation.

For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Pickwick Mill serves as a reminder of the importance of maintaining and investing in infrastructure to mitigate the impacts of extreme weather events. As climate change continues to pose challenges to water management, ensuring the safety and functionality of dams like Pickwick Mill is essential in protecting communities and ecosystems from the growing threats of flooding.