Located in Willow River, Minnesota, the Willow River dam, also known as Stanton Lake, was completed in 1941 and is owned and regulated by the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources. This gravity dam has a structural height of 26 feet and a length of 377 feet, providing a maximum storage capacity of 672 acre-feet and a normal storage capacity of 420 acre-feet. The dam is designed with a controlled spillway and features vertical lift outlet gates for water release.

With a drainage area of 118 square miles, the Willow River dam plays a crucial role in managing water resources and flood control in the region. It has a significant hazard potential and is inspected every four years, with the most recent inspection in June 2015 showing a satisfactory condition assessment. The dam's risk assessment is classified as very high, emphasizing the importance of effective risk management measures to ensure the safety and integrity of the structure for the surrounding community and environment. For water resource and climate enthusiasts, the Willow River dam presents an intriguing case study in dam infrastructure and management practices in Minnesota.