Rice Lake Pool in Aitkin, Minnesota, is a Federal-owned Fish and Wildlife Pond managed by the US Fish and Wildlife Service. The dam, completed in 1952, is a gravity type structure standing at a height of 12 feet with a length of 24 feet. The reservoir has a storage capacity of 13,820 acre-feet and a surface area of 3,000 acres, serving as a vital habitat for aquatic wildlife in the region.

Located along the Rice River, Rice Lake Pool plays a crucial role in maintaining the ecological balance of the area by providing a controlled spillway for water management. Despite its low hazard potential, the reservoir is rated with a very high risk due to its importance in the local ecosystem. While the condition assessment is currently not rated, the dam undergoes inspection every 8 years to ensure its structural integrity and safety.

Enthusiasts of water resources and climate will find Rice Lake Pool to be a fascinating site for studying the intersection of wildlife preservation and water management. With its rich biodiversity and strategic location within the St. Paul District, this Federal-owned reservoir remains a valuable asset for conservation efforts in Minnesota.