Melrose Reservoir Report
Nearby: Lewis Trump Lake
Last Updated: January 11, 2026
Melrose, also known as the Melrose Flouring Mill, is a historic dam located in Jackson County, Wisconsin, along Douglas Creek.
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Summary
Completed in 1864, this arch-type dam stands at a height of 40 feet and has a storage capacity of 200 acre-feet. While its primary purpose is for recreation, the dam is also state-regulated by the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources, with inspections and enforcement conducted regularly to ensure its safety and compliance with regulations.
With a significant hazard potential and an unsatisfactory condition assessment, Melrose poses a moderate risk, prompting the need for continued monitoring and risk management measures. The dam has a spillway type of uncontrolled and a maximum discharge capacity of 414 cubic feet per second. Despite being an older structure, Melrose remains a vital part of the local water resource infrastructure, providing both recreational opportunities and historical significance to the community.
Located in the city of Melrose, this dam serves as a reminder of the region's rich history and the importance of water resource management in the face of changing climate patterns. As water resource and climate enthusiasts, understanding the role and condition of structures like Melrose is crucial in ensuring the sustainable use and preservation of our natural resources for future generations.
Years Modified |
1897 - Other |
Year Completed |
1864 |
Dam Length |
90 |
Dam Height |
40 |
River Or Stream |
DOUGLAS CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Arch |
Surface Area |
16 |
Hydraulic Height |
36 |
Drainage Area |
24 |
Nid Storage |
200 |
Structural Height |
40 |
Hazard Potential |
Significant |
Nid Height |
40 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Black River Ds St Hwy 54 @ Black River Falls
|
2910cfs |
Black River Near Galesville
|
862cfs |
La Crosse River At Sparta
|
152cfs |
La Crosse River Near La Crosse
|
348cfs |
Trempealeau River At Arcadia
|
400cfs |
Trempealeau River At Dodge
|
953cfs |
Dam Data Reference
Condition Assessment
SatisfactoryNo 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
HighDams 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.
Melrose