Grand Rapids
Key Takeaway
Grand Rapids is classified as significant hazard in Minnesota. It was completed in 1916 and is 110 years old. Its primary use is hydroelectric. Significant hazard means failure could cause economic or environmental damage. Learn more.
Physical Details
| Dam Height | 21 ft (taller than 63.7% in MN) |
| Dam Length | 235 ft |
| Dam Type | Gravity |
| Normal Storage | 4.0K acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 465 acres |
| Drainage Area | 3,370 sq mi |
| Max Discharge | 8,000 cfs |
| Year Completed | 1916 (110 years old) |
| NID ID | MN00602 |
Safety Information
No probable loss of human life, but can cause economic loss, environmental damage, or disruption of lifeline facilities.
Hazard potential describes downstream consequences of failure, not the dam's current condition. What does this mean?
Ownership
Allete, Inc.
Private
Nearby Dams
Pokegama Dam
Itasca, MN
Significant Hazard 17 ftLind Greenway
Itasca, MN
Significant Hazard 58 ftPrairie River
Itasca, MN
Low Hazard 35 ftCanisteo Pit
Itasca, MN
Low Hazard 75 ftBuckeye Tailings No. 2
Itasca, MN
Low Hazard 50 ftHunner Tailings
Itasca, MN
Low Hazard 25 ftCanisteo No. 2 North
Itasca, MN
Low Hazard 100 ftClay-Boswell
Itasca, MN
Significant Hazard 50 ftFrequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Grand Rapids?
Grand Rapids is classified as Significant Hazard. No probable loss of human life, but can cause economic loss, environmental damage, or disruption of lifeline facilities. This classification refers to the potential downstream consequences of a failure, not the dam's current structural condition.
Who owns and operates Grand Rapids?
Grand Rapids is owned by Allete, Inc. (Private). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Grand Rapids built?
Grand Rapids was completed in 1916, making it 110 years old. Many U.S. dams were built between the 1930s and 1970s during a period of major infrastructure investment.
What is the primary purpose of Grand Rapids?
Grand Rapids serves the following purposes: Hydroelectric, Recreation. Many dams in the U.S. are multi-purpose, supporting flood control, water supply, recreation, and other uses.
How tall is Grand Rapids?
Grand Rapids has a dam height of 21 ft. Dam height is measured from the natural streambed at the downstream toe to the top of the dam, and may differ from the visible height.
When was Grand Rapids last inspected?
Grand Rapids was last inspected on September 20, 2022. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.