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Little Falls, also known as Upper Power, is a state-owned dam located on the Willow River in St. Croix, Wisconsin. Completed in 1895, this gravity dam stands at 30 feet tall and stretches 370 feet in length, providing a storage capacity of 1700 acre-feet. The dam primarily serves for recreational purposes, offering a surface area of 172 acres for outdoor enthusiasts to enjoy.
With a high hazard potential and fair condition assessment, Little Falls poses a significant risk, especially considering its very high risk assessment rating. Despite regular state inspections and regulatory oversight by the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources, the dam remains a potential safety concern. Emergency action plans have been prepared, but there is room for improvement in meeting guidelines and ensuring the safety of the surrounding community in the event of a dam failure.
Located just 2 miles from Hudson, Little Falls is not only a historical landmark but also a critical piece of infrastructure in need of careful monitoring and management. As climate change continues to impact water resources and infrastructure, the importance of maintaining and upgrading dams like Little Falls becomes increasingly evident to ensure the safety and sustainability of our water systems.
Years_Modified | 1920 - Other |
Year_Completed | 1895 |
Dam_Height | 30 |
River_Or_Stream | Willow River |
Dam_Length | 370 |
Primary_Dam_Type | Gravity |
Surface_Area | 172 |
Hydraulic_Height | 24 |
Drainage_Area | 171 |
Nid_Storage | 1700 |
Structural_Height | 30 |
Hazard_Potential | High |
Nid_Height | 30 |
WAPSIPINICON RIVER NEAR TRIPOLI | 170cfs |
SALT CREEK NEAR ELBERON | 72cfs |
LITTLE CEDAR RIVER NEAR IONIA | 229cfs |
WEST FORK CEDAR RIVER AT FINCHFORD | 572cfs |
CEDAR RIVER AT CHARLES CITY | 487cfs |
TIMBER CREEK NEAR MARSHALLTOWN | 46cfs |
WINNEBAGO RIVER AT MASON CITY | 425cfs |