Mississippi River Locks and Dam 1, also known as Pool 1, is a vital piece of infrastructure located in St. Paul, Minnesota. Constructed in 1917 by the US Army Corps of Engineers, this concrete dam stands at a height of 49 feet and serves primarily for navigation purposes on the Mississippi River. With a hydraulic height of 56 feet and a structural height of 51 feet, the dam provides essential control over the river's water levels, with a spillway width of 574 feet and a maximum discharge of 742 cubic feet per second.

This significant dam, with a storage capacity of 9,300 acre-feet, covers a surface area of 900 acres and serves a drainage area of 19,500 square miles. With two locks each measuring 400 feet in length and 56 feet in width, Mississippi River Locks and Dam 1 plays a crucial role in managing water flow, preventing floods, and supporting recreational activities in the region. Regular maintenance and risk management measures are implemented by the US Army Corps of Engineers to ensure the dam's structural integrity and readiness to respond to any potential emergencies, highlighting the importance of this key water resource infrastructure.

As part of a larger system of dams along the Mississippi River, Mississippi River Locks and Dam 1 faces various risks associated with flood management and severe weather events. The US Army Corps of Engineers actively monitors the dam's condition, engages with local emergency managers, and updates emergency action plans to enhance preparedness and response capabilities. By working collaboratively with stakeholders and implementing ongoing maintenance and risk mitigation strategies, this dam continues to play a critical role in supporting water resource management and climate resilience efforts in the region.