Superior Falls Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Superior Falls is a captivating hydroelectric dam located on the Montreal River in Iron, Wisconsin.


°F

°F

mph

Wind

%

Humidity

Summary

Constructed in 1935, this gravity dam stands at a height of 28 feet and has a hydraulic height of 138 feet, providing a storage capacity of 160 acre-feet. The dam's primary purpose is hydroelectric power generation, with a maximum discharge capacity of 17,000 cubic feet per second.

With a low hazard potential and a very high risk assessment rating, Superior Falls is a critical infrastructure that is not currently rated for its condition. Despite being privately owned, the dam is regulated by the state of Wisconsin and falls under state permitting and enforcement guidelines. This historical structure plays a vital role in water resource management and climate resilience efforts in the region.

Superior Falls serves as a testament to the intersection of human ingenuity and natural resources, embodying the delicate balance between energy production and environmental stewardship. As enthusiasts of water resources and climate, exploring the intricacies of this dam offers insight into the challenges and opportunities associated with harnessing the power of flowing water for sustainable development.

Year Completed

1935

Dam Length

240

Dam Height

28

River Or Stream

MONTREAL

Primary Dam Type

Gravity

Surface Area

21

Hydraulic Height

138

Drainage Area

280

Nid Storage

160

Structural Height

28

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

138
       
Seasonal Comparison

Weather Forecast

Dam Data Reference

Condition Assessment

Satisfactory
No existing or potential dam safety deficiencies are recognized. Acceptable performance is expected under all loading conditions (static, hydrologic, seismic) in accordance with the minimum applicable state or federal regulatory criteria or tolerable risk guidelines.
Fair
No existing dam safety deficiencies are recognized for normal operating conditions. Rare or extreme hydrologic and/or seismic events may result in a dam safety deficiency. Risk may be in the range to take further action. Note: Rare or extreme event is defined by the regulatory agency based on their minimum
Poor A dam safety deficiency is recognized for normal operating conditions which may realistically occur. Remedial action is necessary. POOR may also be used when uncertainties exist as to critical analysis parameters which identify a potential dam safety deficiency. Investigations and studies are necessary.
Unsatisfactory
A dam safety deficiency is recognized that requires immediate or emergency remedial action for problem resolution.
Not Rated
The dam has not been inspected, is not under state or federal jurisdiction, or has been inspected but, for whatever reason, has not been rated.
Not Available
Dams for which the condition assessment is restricted to approved government users.

Hazard Potential Classification

High
Dams assigned the high hazard potential classification are those where failure or mis-operation will probably cause loss of human life.
Significant
Dams assigned the significant hazard potential classification are those dams where failure or mis-operation results in no probable loss of human life but can cause economic loss, environment damage, disruption of lifeline facilities, or impact other concerns. Significant hazard potential classification dams are often located in predominantly rural or agricultural areas but could be in areas with population and significant infrastructure.
Low
Dams assigned the low hazard potential classification are those where failure or mis-operation results in no probable loss of human life and low economic and/or environmental losses. Losses are principally limited to the owner's property.
Undetermined
Dams for which a downstream hazard potential has not been designated or is not provided.
Not Available
Dams for which the downstream hazard potential is restricted to approved government users.