Detroit Lakes, MN- Buck’s Mill Dam Modification

CHALLENGE

The Pelican River Watershed District (PRWD) was approached by the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources (MnDNR) to be the local sponsor for a dam modification in support of their Reconnect the Red initiative. Buck’s Mill Dam, originally constructed in 1871, was a historic structure located on the Pelican River between Mill Pond and Buck Lake, near Lake Melissa.

As a key feature in the region’s water system, it served the area for over 150 years. In its previous condition, it posed a safety concern, lacked formal public access, and obstructed fish passage in the region. To ensure continued environmental health and safety, the dam underwent essential modifications. Due to the prominence and history of the dam, there was abundant interest from the public in any modification to the structure and its impact on regional water levels.

SOLUTION

Moore initiated the project with a public information meeting to address public concerns and inform people of the process that would be taking place and opportunities for continued engagement. The project went through initial design and environmental review prior to a public hearing to establish the project consistent with MS 103D.605. After being established as a project of the watershed district, Moore completed final design and permitting and prepared construction documentation. Throughout the process, Moore provided opportunities for public engagement and outreach and consulted with MnDNR and a Technical Advisory Committee composed of PRWD partners, adjacent landowners, and general public representatives.

The final design included several rock riffle structures, a modified dam crest with equivalent hydraulic performance to the existing condition, protection of adjacent infrastructure, a raised township road with new box culverts, and a public trail through county land from the township road to Mill Pond.

OUTCOME

Construction began in February of 2026 and was substantially completed in May of 2026. The completed project restores fish passage along this portion of the Pelican River, supporting the Reconnect the Red initiative and improving aquatic connectivity, while enhancing safety, maintaining hydraulic performance, and expanding public access to the area.