Moore Engineering- Bucks Mill Dam Short Video

Buck’s Mill Dam, originally constructed in 1871, is 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 has served the area for over 150 years. To ensure continued environmental health and safety, the dam will soon undergo essential modifications.
This dam modification project will include:
-The installation of a natural looking spillway that will allow for fish passage. The downstream township culvert will also be replaced.
-The Pelican River Watershed District (PRWD) has hired Moore Engineering Inc. (MEI) to complete the project.
-As part of state permitting, it is required that lake outlet function not change during or after project completion. This means water level behavior will not differ from the typical seasonal changes.
-This project is part of the larger DNR “Reconnect the Red” fish passage initiative.
The Bucks Mill Dam Project is estimated to cost between $2-3 million, with funding primarily coming from Minnesota state grants, including the Lessard-Sams Outdoor Heritage Council and Get Out MORE funds.
The Pelican River Watershed District is dedicated to keeping the public informed and engaged throughout the project. Opportunities for involvement will include public meetings, interactive displays, presentations, and other activities. Details and updates can be found on the Bucks Mill Dam project webpage, accessible through the Pelican River Watershed District’s website at www.prwd.org/project/bucks-mill-dam-modification.