Lower Hydro, also known as Park Falls Lower Hydro Electric, is a private hydroelectric facility located in Ladysmith, Wisconsin. Built in 1923, this gravity dam stands at 22 feet tall and stretches 340 feet in length, with a storage capacity of 570 acre-feet and a maximum discharge of 16,200 cubic feet per second. Situated on the North Fork Flambeau River in Price County, this dam serves the primary purpose of generating hydroelectric power.

Managed by the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC), Lower Hydro has a controlled spillway with a width of 102 feet and is classified as having low hazard potential. The dam features Tainter radial gates for water release and has a surface area of 71 acres, serving a drainage area of 762 square miles. Despite its age, the dam's risk assessment is rated as very high, highlighting the need for ongoing monitoring and maintenance to ensure its structural integrity and safety.

With its historic significance and vital role in renewable energy production, Lower Hydro stands as a testament to the enduring value of hydroelectric power in Wisconsin's water resource management. As climate enthusiasts and water resource advocates, it is crucial to recognize and support the maintenance and continued operation of facilities like Lower Hydro to harness the sustainable benefits of hydropower while safeguarding the surrounding environment and communities from potential risks and hazards.