Mississippi River Lock And Dam 3 Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Mississippi River Lock and Dam 3, also known as Pool 3, is a federal structure located in Red Wing, Minnesota.


°F

°F

mph

Wind

%

Humidity

Summary

Completed in 1938, this concrete dam serves primarily for navigation purposes on the Mississippi River. With a dam height of 26 feet and a hydraulic height of 38 feet, it helps maintain a constant pool level for river traffic, with a spillway width of 320 feet. The dam has a significant hazard potential and is classified as high-risk, but ongoing risk assessment measures are expected to reduce this to low-risk status.

US Army Corps of Engineers (USACE) continuously monitors and manages the dam-related flood risks by conducting regular inspections, maintenance, and repairs to ensure its proper functioning. The dam's risk management measures also include public engagement to raise awareness of potential hazards, particularly during river flood events. Recent modifications to the dam have focused on navigation improvements and rehabilitation of spot dikes to reduce accidents and potential overtopping during flood conditions. By prioritizing activities that address the most critical risks, USACE is working to enhance the safety and efficiency of Lock and Dam 3 for water resource and climate enthusiasts.

Overall, Lock and Dam 3 plays a crucial role in maintaining navigation on the Mississippi River while managing flood risks and ensuring public safety. With ongoing risk assessment and management measures in place, USACE is dedicated to reducing the dam's hazard potential and enhancing its resilience to potential threats. For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Mississippi River Lock and Dam 3 serves as a fascinating example of infrastructure designed to balance navigation needs with environmental and safety considerations in a dynamic riverine ecosystem.

Year Completed

1938

Dam Length

4500

Dam Height

26

River Or Stream

MISSISSIPPI

Primary Dam Type

Concrete

Surface Area

17950

Length Of Locks

600

Hydraulic Height

38

Drainage Area

45170

Nid Storage

547000

Structural Height

44

Outlet Gates

Roller - 4, Uncontrolled - 0

Hazard Potential

Significant

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

44
       
Seasonal Comparison

Weather Forecast

Dam Data Reference

Condition Assessment

Satisfactory
No existing or potential dam safety deficiencies are recognized. Acceptable performance is expected under all loading conditions (static, hydrologic, seismic) in accordance with the minimum applicable state or federal regulatory criteria or tolerable risk guidelines.
Fair
No existing dam safety deficiencies are recognized for normal operating conditions. Rare or extreme hydrologic and/or seismic events may result in a dam safety deficiency. Risk may be in the range to take further action. Note: Rare or extreme event is defined by the regulatory agency based on their minimum
Poor A dam safety deficiency is recognized for normal operating conditions which may realistically occur. Remedial action is necessary. POOR may also be used when uncertainties exist as to critical analysis parameters which identify a potential dam safety deficiency. Investigations and studies are necessary.
Unsatisfactory
A dam safety deficiency is recognized that requires immediate or emergency remedial action for problem resolution.
Not Rated
The dam has not been inspected, is not under state or federal jurisdiction, or has been inspected but, for whatever reason, has not been rated.
Not Available
Dams for which the condition assessment is restricted to approved government users.

Hazard Potential Classification

High
Dams assigned the high hazard potential classification are those where failure or mis-operation will probably cause loss of human life.
Significant
Dams assigned the significant hazard potential classification are those dams where failure or mis-operation results in no probable loss of human life but can cause economic loss, environment damage, disruption of lifeline facilities, or impact other concerns. Significant hazard potential classification dams are often located in predominantly rural or agricultural areas but could be in areas with population and significant infrastructure.
Low
Dams assigned the low hazard potential classification are those where failure or mis-operation results in no probable loss of human life and low economic and/or environmental losses. Losses are principally limited to the owner's property.
Undetermined
Dams for which a downstream hazard potential has not been designated or is not provided.
Not Available
Dams for which the downstream hazard potential is restricted to approved government users.