Summary
Built in 1951, this earthen dam stands at 28 feet tall and spans 1600 feet in length, creating a reservoir with a normal storage capacity of 1534 acre-feet. The dam has a low hazard potential and is currently in fair condition according to a recent assessment in December 2020.
With a drainage area of 108.2 square miles and a maximum discharge of 14,360 cubic feet per second, Mead plays a crucial role in managing water resources in the region. The dam's controlled spillway and very high risk assessment highlight its importance in flood control and risk mitigation efforts. Despite its age, Mead continues to be regulated, inspected, and enforced by the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources to ensure its structural integrity and safety for the surrounding community.
For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Mead serves as a fascinating example of how human-made structures can have a lasting impact on the natural environment. As efforts to manage and conserve water resources become increasingly important in the face of climate change, understanding the functions and condition of dams like Mead is essential for sustainable water management practices. By staying informed and engaged with the status of such critical infrastructure, enthusiasts can contribute to the ongoing conversation about the intersection of water resources, climate resilience, and community safety.
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15-Day Weather Outlook
Year Completed |
1951 |
Dam Length |
1600 |
Dam Height |
28 |
River Or Stream |
SOUTH FORK EAU CLAIRE RIVER |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
320 |
Hydraulic Height |
16 |
Drainage Area |
108.2 |
Nid Storage |
4000 |
Structural Height |
28 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Nid Height |
28 |
Seasonal Comparison
5-Day Hourly Forecast Detail
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Black River At Neillsville
|
1290cfs |
Chippewa River At Chippewa Falls
|
7200cfs |
Big Eau Pleine River At Stratford
|
260cfs |
Black River Ds St Hwy 54 @ Black River Falls
|
3150cfs |
Jump River At Sheldon
|
1040cfs |
Rib River At Rib Falls
|
338cfs |
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 |
|---|---|---|
Mead Lake Park
|
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Rock Dam Park
|
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Wild Rock County Park
|
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Greenwood Park & Campground
|
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Greenwood Park
|
Mead