Summary
With a height of 15 feet and a hydraulic height of 30 feet, the dam plays a crucial role in harnessing the power of the Little Wolf River to produce electricity. The controlled spillway and Tainter (radial) outlet gates ensure efficient water flow and management, with a maximum discharge capacity of 3,600 cubic feet per second.
Despite being privately owned, the Big Falls Milldam is subject to federal regulation by the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC). The dam has a low hazard potential, but a very high risk assessment rating of 1 due to its age and the potential impact of a dam breach on the surrounding area. While the condition assessment of the dam is currently not available, it is important for water resource and climate enthusiasts to monitor and advocate for the maintenance and safety of this historic structure to ensure its continued functionality and environmental impact in the region.
Year Completed |
1926 |
Dam Length |
256 |
Dam Height |
15 |
River Or Stream |
Little Wolf |
Primary Dam Type |
Gravity |
Surface Area |
23 |
Hydraulic Height |
30 |
Drainage Area |
183 |
Nid Storage |
150 |
Outlet Gates |
Tainter (radial) - 1 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Nid Height |
30 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
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.
Big Falls Milldam
Campbell Lake -- Access