Scanlon West Channel Plug Dam Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 15, 2025
The Scanlon West Channel Plug Dam in Minnesota, completed in 1922, stands as a historic structure along the St.
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Summary
Louis River. This gravity dam, primarily serving for hydroelectric purposes, boasts a height of 15 feet and a length of 107 feet, with a storage capacity reaching 876 acre-feet. Managed by the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission, the dam is regulated and inspected by both state and federal agencies to ensure its operational integrity.
Located in Scanlon, Minnesota, the dam is part of a system consisting of three associated structures, contributing to the region's water resource management. With a low hazard potential but high risk assessment rating, the dam remains a crucial piece of infrastructure within the area's hydroelectric network. Despite lacking current condition assessment data, the dam's importance in maintaining water resources and mitigating climate risks in the region is evident.
For water resource and climate enthusiasts, the Scanlon West Channel Plug Dam represents a blend of historical significance and modern infrastructure management. With a focus on hydroelectric power and water storage capabilities, the dam plays a vital role in the region's energy production and water management strategies. As state and federal agencies continue to regulate and inspect the dam, its role in maintaining a sustainable water supply and addressing climate-related risks remains paramount in the local community and beyond.
Year Completed |
1922 |
Dam Length |
107 |
Dam Height |
15 |
River Or Stream |
St Louis River |
Surface Area |
74 |
Hydraulic Height |
15 |
Nid Storage |
876 |
Structural Height |
15 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Nid Height |
15 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
St. Louis River At Scanlon
|
693cfs |
Nemadji River Near South Superior
|
93cfs |
Knife River Near Two Harbors
|
9cfs |
Bois Brule River At Brule
|
183cfs |
St. Croix River Near Danbury
|
1650cfs |
Kettle River Below Sandstone
|
170cfs |
Dam Data Reference
Condition Assessment
SatisfactoryNo 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
HighDams 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.
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