Summary
Completed in 1885, this gravity-type dam stands at a height of 22 feet, with a hydraulic height of 19 feet and a structural height of 22 feet. The dam has a length of 271 feet and provides a normal storage capacity of 200 acre-feet for recreational purposes over a surface area of 40 acres.
Despite being classified as low hazard potential with a fair condition assessment, Wittenberg poses a very high risk due to its age and the potential for failure. The dam has a maximum discharge capacity of 1,810 cubic feet per second and has undergone modifications in 1908. Regular inspections are conducted, with the last one taking place in August 2018, to ensure its safety and compliance with state regulations. The dam is under the jurisdiction of the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources and is permitted, inspected, and enforced by the state agency.
In the event of an emergency, it is crucial for the community to have an Emergency Action Plan (EAP) in place to guide response efforts and mitigate risks. While the EAP status for Wittenberg is unclear, it is essential for stakeholders and local authorities to ensure that the dam meets safety guidelines and that adequate risk management measures are in place to protect both the environment and public safety in this picturesque part of Wisconsin.
Years Modified |
1908 - Other |
Year Completed |
1885 |
Dam Length |
271 |
Dam Height |
22 |
River Or Stream |
MIDDLE BRANCH EMBARRASS |
Primary Dam Type |
Gravity |
Surface Area |
40 |
Hydraulic Height |
19 |
Drainage Area |
72.4 |
Nid Storage |
360 |
Structural Height |
22 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Nid Height |
22 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Red River At Morgan Road Near Morgan
|
145cfs |
Eau Claire River At Kelly
|
280cfs |
Embarrass River Near Embarrass
|
259cfs |
Wisconsin River At Rothschild
|
2280cfs |
Tomorrow River Near Nelsonville
|
26cfs |
Wolf River At Langlade
|
326cfs |
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.
Wittenberg
Homme Pond -- Access