Scanlon East Zigzag Plug Dam Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 15, 2025
The Scanlon East Zigzag Plug Dam, located in Scanlon, Minnesota, is a gravity dam primarily used for hydroelectric purposes.
°F
°F
mph
Wind
%
Humidity
Summary
Completed in 1922, this structure stands at 15 feet tall and spans 120 feet in length, with a storage capacity of 876 acre-feet. Situated on the St. Louis River within the Carlton County, the dam is regulated by the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources and inspected by the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission.
Despite its low hazard potential, the dam's risk assessment categorizes it as high, indicating the need for effective risk management measures. The dam has three associated structures and is subject to regular inspections, with the last one conducted in July 2019. While the condition assessment of the dam is not currently available, emergency action plans have been prepared and updated to ensure readiness in case of any unforeseen events.
As a vital component of the region's water resource infrastructure, the Scanlon East Zigzag Plug Dam serves as a crucial source of hydroelectric power and contributes to the overall water management system in the area. With its rich history and ongoing regulatory oversight, this dam plays a significant role in the sustainable utilization of water resources and highlights the importance of effective dam maintenance and risk management practices for ensuring public safety and environmental protection.
Year Completed |
1922 |
Dam Length |
120 |
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.
Spafford City Park Campground
Jay Cooke State Park
Silver Creek Backpack Campsite
High Landing Backpack Campsite
Ash Ridge Backpack Campsite
Lost Lake Backpack Campsite
Scanlon East Zigzag Plug Dam
Upper Saint Louis