The Pioneer Clarification dam, located in St. Louis County, Minnesota, plays a crucial role in managing tailings for the local residents. Built in 1961, this earth dam stands at a height of 25 feet and stretches 1000 feet in length. With a storage capacity of 239 acre-feet, it serves the Lonsdorf Creek watershed with a normal storage of 117 acre-feet and a drainage area of 0.6 square miles.

Managed by the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources, the dam is regulated, permitted, inspected, and enforced by state agencies to ensure its safety and functionality. Despite being rated as having a significant hazard potential, the condition assessment of the dam is currently listed as 'Not Rated'. The last inspection of the dam was conducted in August 2019, with a scheduled inspection frequency of every 4 years.

With its location in a picturesque natural setting and its vital role in water resource management, the Pioneer Clarification dam serves as a key infrastructure for safeguarding the environment and ensuring the well-being of the local community. As climate change continues to impact water resources, the proper maintenance and monitoring of dams like Pioneer Clarification are essential in adapting to the challenges of a changing climate and protecting the surrounding ecosystems.