International Falls

Rainy River· Koochiching, Minnesota· Built 1909· Gravity· 29 ft tall

Key Takeaway

International Falls is classified as low hazard in Minnesota. It was completed in 1909 and is 117 years old. Its primary use is hydroelectric.

Physical Details

Dam Height 29 ft (taller than 80.4% in MN)
Dam Length505 ft
Dam TypeGravity
Max Storage77.3K acre-ft
Surface Area48,296 acres
Drainage Area5,000 sq mi
Max Discharge7,650 cfs
Year Completed1909 (117 years old)
NID IDMN00653

Safety Information

Low Hazard

No probable loss of human life and low economic/environmental losses expected.

Hazard potential describes downstream consequences of failure, not the dam's current condition. What does this mean?

Emergency Action Plan: Yes
Last Inspection: August 11, 2021
State Regulated: Yes
Regulatory Agency: MNDNR EWR

Ownership

International Falls Power Company

Private

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the hazard classification of International Falls?

International Falls is classified as Low Hazard. No probable loss of human life and low economic/environmental losses expected. This classification refers to the potential downstream consequences of a failure, not the dam's current structural condition.

Who owns and operates International Falls?

International Falls is owned by International Falls Power Company (Private). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.

When was International Falls built?

International Falls was completed in 1909, making it 117 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 International Falls?

International Falls serves the following purposes: Hydroelectric, Recreation, Water Supply, Flood Risk Reduction. Many dams in the U.S. are multi-purpose, supporting flood control, water supply, recreation, and other uses.

How tall is International Falls?

International Falls has a dam height of 29 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 International Falls last inspected?

International Falls was last inspected on August 11, 2021. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.

Data from the National Inventory of Dams (NID) maintained by the US Army Corps of Engineers. Dam conditions may have changed since the last update. This site is not affiliated with USACE. Do not use for emergency planning — contact your local dam safety program.