Mendota Locks, also known as Tenney Park Locks, located in Madison, Wisconsin, play a crucial role in navigation and recreation along the Yahara River. Constructed in 1849, these locks have a dam height of 16 feet and a hydraulic height of 5 feet, with a total length of 100 feet. The locks provide a normal storage capacity of 132,000 acre-feet and serve a drainage area of 254 square miles, making them integral to managing water resources in the region.

With a high hazard potential and a satisfactory condition assessment, Mendota Locks have been inspected regularly, with the last assessment conducted in December 2018. The locks have a very high risk assessment level, denoting their critical importance in flood control and water management. Managed by the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources, the locks are subject to state regulations, permitting, inspection, and enforcement, ensuring their safe operation and maintenance for the benefit of the community and the environment.

As a historic structure that has been modified over the years, Mendota Locks continue to serve as a vital component of the water resource infrastructure in Dane County, Wisconsin. The locks' controlled spillway, efficient navigation system, and significant storage capacity make them essential for managing water levels, ensuring recreation opportunities, and safeguarding against flood risks in the region.