1938,1991 Mississippi Lock and Dam #3 near Red Wing, MN

(Satellite)

USACE
"Constructed and placed in operation July 1938. The site underwent major rehabilitation from 1988 through 1991. The dam is 365' [111m] long with four roller gates. More than 2,000 feet [610m] of earth embankment with a series of upstream spot dikes completes the structure to create Pool 3."

USACE, St. Paul District posted

In celebration of our 250th anniversary we #TBT to July 21, 1938, when construction was completed on Lock and Dam 3 in Welch, Minnesota.  

The dam is 365 feet long and includes four submersible roller gates. With 2009 federal and American Recovery and Reinvestment Act contributions, an 862-foot-long guide wall extension was completed in April 2011 and a closure dike to mitigate outdraft conditions near the guide wall was completed in October 2011.

RepublicanEagle, File photo

A view with the roller gates all of the way up.

2:14 video @ 0:41

Steve Nieckarz, Aug 2018

Steve Nieckarz, Aug 2018

USACE_report
I'm writing this on Jul 13, 2025, and the gates are all the way up for dams 3, 5a, 9 and 10.

The lock closes when the flow exceeds 125kcfs. [RepublicanEagle]

Kraemer North America posted three photos with the comment:

As we look ahead to attending Clean Currents 2026, we're reflecting on some of the impactful water infrastructure projects that showcase Kraemer's expertise and commitment to excellence.

Throwback Thursday to a historic achievement for Kraemer in the St. Paul District at Lock & Dam 3!

Kraemer secured the first and second firm-fixed-price Design-Build contracts in district history, totaling $47 million and setting a new benchmark for innovation and execution.

These projects delivered critical navigation improvements, embankment and dam risk mitigation, and enhanced infrastructure safety, including:

✅ Construction of an 862-foot guide wall and closure dike at Red Wing Lock & Dam

✅ More than 171,000 cubic yards of dredging

✅ Extensive embankment improvements near Diamond Bluff, including earthmoving, rock protection, spillways, and water-level controls

Despite challenging winter conditions, the team completed the work ahead of schedule, earning praise from the USACE for outstanding planning, quality control, communication, and project management.

This accomplishment reflects the dedication, expertise, and commitment to excellence that continue to define Kraemer's legacy. We look forward to connecting with industry partners and sharing our experience at Clean Currents 2026.

https://www.kraemerna.com/brochures/dams-brochure/

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