Knife Falls South Channel Dam is a concrete gravity dam located on the St. Louis River in Scanlon, Minnesota. Built in 1922, the dam stands at 18 feet tall and spans 1644 feet in length, with a storage capacity of 1763 acre-feet. The primary purpose of the dam is hydroelectric power generation, with additional benefits for recreation in the area.

Managed by the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission, the dam has a controlled spillway with a width of 359 feet and a maximum discharge capacity of 45,000 cubic feet per second. Despite its low hazard potential, the dam is considered to have a very high risk due to its critical importance in managing water resources and energy production in the region. With regular state inspections and enforcement, the dam plays a crucial role in water management and climate resilience efforts in the area.

The Knife Falls South Channel Dam serves as a vital infrastructure for both energy production and recreational activities in Carlton County, Minnesota. With a rich history dating back nearly a century, the dam continues to play a crucial role in the region's water resource management. As climate change impacts continue to pose challenges, the maintenance and upkeep of this dam are essential for ensuring a sustainable and reliable water supply for the surrounding communities.