Hatfield Reservoir Report
Nearby: Trows Resettlement Admin. 29
Last Updated: December 13, 2025
Hatfield is a historic dam located in Black River Falls, Wisconsin, along the Black River.
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Summary
Built in 1908 for hydroelectric purposes, this Earth and Gravity dam stands at a height of 50 feet with a hydraulic height of 58 feet and a structural height of 92 feet. With a storage capacity of 15,100 acre-feet and a drainage area of 1,290 square miles, Hatfield plays a crucial role in water resource management and energy production in the region.
Managed by the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission, Hatfield is equipped with a controlled spillway and various outlet gates for efficient water release. The dam's hazard potential is rated as high, emphasizing the need for regular inspections and risk assessment. Despite its age, Hatfield continues to operate smoothly, providing clean energy to the surrounding communities while ensuring water resource sustainability and flood control along the Black River.
As climate change impacts water resources and hydrology patterns, the role of dams like Hatfield becomes increasingly vital in ensuring water security and energy resilience. With a very high risk assessment rating, Hatfield stands as a testament to the importance of proactive risk management and emergency preparedness in safeguarding critical infrastructure against the challenges of a changing climate. As enthusiasts of water resources and climate adaptation, Hatfield serves as a fascinating case study in the intersection of energy production, water management, and climate resilience.
Year Completed |
1908 |
Dam Length |
3100 |
Dam Height |
50 |
River Or Stream |
Black River |
Surface Area |
945 |
Hydraulic Height |
58 |
Drainage Area |
1290 |
Nid Storage |
15100 |
Structural Height |
92 |
Outlet Gates |
Other Controlled - 9, Slide (sluice gate) - 9, Tainter (radial) - 10 |
Hazard Potential |
High |
Foundations |
Rock |
Nid Height |
92 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Black River Ds St Hwy 54 @ Black River Falls
|
256cfs |
Black River At Neillsville
|
193cfs |
Yellow River At Babcock
|
44cfs |
La Crosse River At Sparta
|
150cfs |
Black River Near Galesville
|
862cfs |
Trempealeau River At Arcadia
|
400cfs |
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.
Area Campgrounds
| Location | Reservations | Toilets |
|---|---|---|
West Arbutus County Park
|
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East Arbutus Camp
|
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Russell Memorial Park
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Russell Memorial Campground
|
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East Arbutus
|
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East Fork - Black River State Forest
|
Hatfield
Lake Arbutus -- Access Nr Robin Ln