Blanchard, a hydroelectric dam located in Sartell, Minnesota, on the Mississippi River, has been a key player in water resource management since its completion in 1925. This concrete, earth, and gravity dam stands at a height of 46 feet and has a length of 4451 feet, providing a storage capacity of 16,358 acre-feet and serving multiple purposes, including hydroelectric power generation and recreation. With a controlled spillway and Tainter radial gates, Blanchard has a maximum discharge capacity of 72,000 cubic feet per second, making it a crucial asset for flood control in the region.

Managed by the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission, Blanchard is subject to regular state inspections, permitting, and enforcement, ensuring its safety and compliance with regulations. Despite its low hazard potential, the dam is considered to have a very high risk due to its age and the surrounding environmental conditions. Emergency action plans are in place, with the last revision in December 2019, to address any potential risks or incidents efficiently. With its historical significance, operational efficiency, and strategic location on the Mississippi River, Blanchard stands as a testament to effective water resource management and climate resilience in the region.