Saxon Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Saxon, also known as Saxon Falls, is a private hydroelectric dam located in Wisconsin along the Montreal River.


°F

°F

mph

Wind

%

Humidity

Summary

Built in 1911, this gravity dam stands at 37 feet high and has a hydraulic height of 133 feet, providing a surface area of 63 acres and a maximum storage capacity of 700 acre-feet. The dam serves multiple purposes including hydroelectric power generation and recreation, with a normal storage capacity of 250 acre-feet and a drainage area of 270 square miles.

Despite being privately owned, Saxon Falls is regulated by the state of Wisconsin and permitted for operation, but not subject to regular inspections. The dam has a controlled spillway and a low hazard potential, with a very high risk rating due to its age and condition assessment not being rated. Limited risk management measures are in place, but emergency action plans have been prepared and updated as recently as January 2020. With its historical significance and potential for both energy production and outdoor activities, Saxon Falls remains an important water resource for the region.

Years Modified

1940 - Other

Year Completed

1911

Dam Length

230

Dam Height

37

River Or Stream

MONTREAL

Primary Dam Type

Gravity

Surface Area

63

Hydraulic Height

133

Drainage Area

270

Nid Storage

700

Structural Height

37

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

133
       
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.