International Falls Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

International Falls, located in Baudette, MN, is a hydroelectric dam on the Rainy River in Minnesota.


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Summary

Completed in 1909, this gravity dam stands at a height of 29 feet and has a length of 505 feet, with a storage capacity of 77,274 acre-feet. The dam serves multiple purposes including flood risk reduction, recreation, and water supply, while being regulated by the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission.

With a low hazard potential and a moderate risk assessment rating, the International Falls dam is inspected by the FERC every two years to ensure its structural integrity and safety. The dam's uncontrolled spillway has a width of 170 feet, allowing for a maximum discharge of 7,650 cubic feet per second. Despite being a private-owned structure, the dam is subject to state regulation, permitting, inspection, and enforcement by the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources.

As a key feature in the St. Paul District of the US Army Corps of Engineers, the International Falls dam plays a crucial role in managing water resources and climate impacts in the region. Its strategic location and multi-purpose design make it a vital asset for the local community and a critical component in the overall water management system of Minnesota.

Year Completed

1909

Dam Length

505

Dam Height

29

River Or Stream

Rainy River

Primary Dam Type

Gravity

Surface Area

48296

Drainage Area

5000

Nid Storage

77274

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

29
       
Seasonal Comparison

Weather Forecast

Dam Data Reference

Condition Assessment

Satisfactory
No 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

High
Dams 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.