The dam spans 250 feet in length and has a height of 23 feet, with a storage capacity of 170 acre-feet. Situated on Halls Creek in Jackson County, Wisconsin, the dam serves as a popular spot for outdoor enthusiasts seeking recreational activities such as boating, fishing, and wildlife observation.
Managed by the local government and regulated by the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources (WIDNR), Merillan Mills has a low hazard potential and is assessed to be in fair condition as of May 2020. The dam's spillway type is uncontrolled, with a maximum discharge capacity of 2750 cubic feet per second. Despite its moderate risk assessment rating, the dam has not been significantly modified or updated in recent years, with its last inspection conducted in July 2016.
For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Merillan Mills offers a glimpse into the historical significance of dam infrastructure in Wisconsin, as well as the importance of balancing recreational use with environmental conservation and safety considerations. With its scenic location and relatively low hazard potential, the dam provides a valuable opportunity for outdoor recreation while highlighting the need for ongoing monitoring and maintenance to ensure its continued functionality and safety.
Wind
Humidity
Year Completed |
1907 |
Dam Length |
250 |
Dam Height |
23 |
River Or Stream |
HALLS CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Gravity |
Surface Area |
16 |
Hydraulic Height |
18 |
Drainage Area |
45 |
Nid Storage |
170 |
Structural Height |
23 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Nid Height |
23 |
Black River Ds St Hwy 54 @ Black River Falls
|
3150cfs |
Black River At Neillsville
|
1290cfs |
Black River Near Galesville
|
4590cfs |
La Crosse River At Sparta
|
180cfs |
Trempealeau River At Arcadia
|
566cfs |
Yellow River At Babcock
|
333cfs |
| Location | Reservations | Toilets |
|---|---|---|
Gile Memorial Village
|
||
Wildcat Mound County Park
|
||
Russell Memorial Park
|
||
Russell Memorial Campground
|
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West Arbutus County Park
|
||
East Arbutus Camp
|