Danbury Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Danbury is a captivating hydroelectric dam located in Burnett, Wisconsin, along the Yellow River.


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Summary

Built in 1928 and designed by Herman T. Hagestad, this gravity dam stands at 30 feet in height with a structural height of 35 feet and a length of 388 feet. It serves multiple purposes including fish and wildlife pond, recreation, and of course, hydroelectric power generation.

With a maximum storage capacity of 5040 acre-feet and a surface area of 2800 acres, Danbury plays a crucial role in managing water resources in the region. The dam has a controlled spillway with a width of 54 feet and vertical lift gates for water release. Despite its low hazard potential, the dam is considered to have a very high risk level, according to the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission.

Although the condition assessment of the dam is currently not available, regular inspections are conducted every 3 years to ensure its safety and integrity. With its rich history, diverse functionality, and significant impact on water resource management, Danbury stands as a key infrastructure for water and climate enthusiasts seeking to understand the intersection of hydroelectric power, recreation, and environmental conservation.

Year Completed

1928

Dam Length

388

Dam Height

30

River Or Stream

Yellow River

Primary Dam Type

Gravity

Surface Area

2800

Hydraulic Height

30

Drainage Area

240

Nid Storage

5040

Structural Height

35

Outlet Gates

Vertical Lift - 3

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

35
       
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.