Parnell Impoundment

Flood water retention and wetland project of approximately 800 acres. Water levels will vary, depending on snowmelt conditions and rainfall runoff. The eastern part of the impoundment is planted in agricultural crops such as wheat, and soybeans.

The manmade impoundment is an excellent spring migration habitat for waterfowl and other waterbirds. It is designed and built to reduce flooding on downstream urban areas, agricultural lands, and legal ditch systems. Other purposes of the impoundment are to provide wildlife enhancement and improve water quality by reducing erosion. Within the impoundment area, there are permanent open water pools along with marsh wetlands and an area of Aspen Parklands.
The west access is along a gravel surface township road (240th Ave. SW) and the south access is along Polk County Highway #17 (paved road). Park at the gates and walk along the berm to view birds
Kiosk is located near the west access site

A diversity of waterfowl; other species observed include Franklin’s Gull, grebes, American White Pelican. Variety of songbirds and hawks, Sharp-tailed and Ruffed grouse, waders, Bald Eagles, Swans, and Sandhill Cranes

Owned and managed by Red Lake Watershed District. There are pull offs along the west and south sides. Best water conditions at the northwest side of the impoundment. Note that the impoundment is open to hunters in fall but hunters need to contact the Watershed District for access. Mammals that may be seen include otters, beaver, mink, deer, and occasional black bear, bobcat, and gray wolf. Nearest towns – Euclid – 6 miles (limited services) & Crookston – 12 miles (full services)