The Headwaters Dams were built between 1881 and 1912 in the Mississippi headwaters. The dams served to regulate river flow and assist navigation until 1938, when they were relegated to a flood control role.

Winnibigoshish, Leech Lake, and Pokegama Falls Dams were built in the Mississippi Headwaters during the late nineteenth century. These structures preceded the construction of the Headwaters reservoir system and played key roles in flood prevention and river control during the 20th century.