Calhoun Area Water Control and Habitat Enhancement Project - BOAT LANDING CLOSURE!

A concrete structure controls water flow into a calm lake, with overcast skies and greenery nearby.
Pre-project photo of Calhoun Dam project site.
A serene riverside scene with greenery, flowing water, and a small bridge in the background, creating a tranquil atmosphere.
Pre-project photo of Calhoun Bridge. The MFCRWD and DNR will partner to replace the bridge to ensure it remains safe and functional.
A tranquil river scene surrounded by lush greenery and trees, viewed from a wooden railing.
A rushing stream flows through a lush green area, with trees lining the banks and a concrete edge visible.
A bridge over a calm waterway, surrounded by vegetation, with someone standing nearby on a path.
A concrete structure controls water flow into a calm lake, with overcast skies and greenery nearby.
A serene riverside scene with greenery, flowing water, and a small bridge in the background, creating a tranquil atmosphere.
A tranquil river scene surrounded by lush greenery and trees, viewed from a wooden railing.
A rushing stream flows through a lush green area, with trees lining the banks and a concrete edge visible.
A bridge over a calm waterway, surrounded by vegetation, with someone standing nearby on a path.

The Middle Fork Crow River Watershed District (MFCRWD), in partnership with the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources (DNR) is leading a major enhancement initiative within the Dietrich Lange Wildlife Management Area (WMA). This project aims to renovate aging water control structures including the Lake Calhoun diversion structure and the Lake Calhoun outlet dam. The centerpiece of this effort is the renovation of these two outdated dams with new rock arch rapids and replacement of the timber bridge with a more modern vehicle bridge which includes a pedestrian walkway. These new structures are located along the Middle Fork Crow River. These naturalized features will maintain necessary court ordered water elevations while re-establishing ecological connectivity between the lakes, benefiting fish passage and habitat quality.

The project is supported by $2  million in secured funding from multiple sources. This includes $1.425 million from the Legislature’s Get Out MORE (Modernize Outdoor Recreation Experiences) initiative, $125,000 in Wildlife Betterment of Lands bonding, and $450,000 in Natural Resource Asset Preservation bonding to support bridge replacement. In addition to modernized outdoor infrastructure while improving ecosystem resilience, the upgrades will provide increased shore fishing opportunities for anglers.

Construction and associated closures are scheduled to begin in late summer, with the project area expected to be closed for access around September 2026. This collaborative endeavor reflects a shared commitment to sustainable natural resource. 

Aerial view of Calhoun Lake, Crow River Diversion Structure, and Lake Calhoun Outlet Structure.
Figure 1: Project site overview showing the location of dams and connecting water bodies.

 

A river with a small dam surrounded by greenery and trees.
Figure 2: Sample rock arch rapids similar to what will be constructed between Lake Calhoun and Green Lake.
Diagram of a water flow system with labeled features like existing dam, rock arch rapids, pool, and fish management outlet.
Figure 3: Stantec blueprint rendering of the natural rock arch structure replacing the existing dam systems.

 

February 4th until Ice Out Closure

The Calhoun Boat Landing is closed from Feb 4, 2026, for construction, with an alternative access point available nearby.

The Calhoun Boat Landing will be CLOSED starting Wednesday, February 4th, 2026 for the reminder of the winter or until further notice. The Township landing on East Calhoun Rd is open for lake access. During this construction time the DNR bridge and access road to the landing will be closed for the remainder of the winter or until further notice. The Township landing at 160th St NE and E Calhoun Rd is available for use to vehicle traffic. We appreciate your patience cooperation. For any questions, call Andy Johnson at 320-796-0888 or email andy@mfcrow.org.