Harrisville, located in Marquette, Wisconsin, is home to a gravity dam on the Montello Creek that serves primarily for hydroelectric power generation and recreation purposes. With a history dating back to its completion in 1853, this dam stands at a height of 15 feet and spans 700 feet in length, with a storage capacity of 1600 acre-feet. Despite its age, the dam is in satisfactory condition and has a high hazard potential, making it a crucial structure for water resource management in the region.

Managed by the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources (WIDNR), the Harrisville dam undergoes regular inspections and has a regulated state permit for operation, ensuring its compliance with safety standards. The surrounding area boasts a surface area of 245 acres and a drainage area of 78 square miles, with a maximum discharge capacity of 2700 cubic feet per second. While the dam has been modified over the years for maintenance and upgrades, its risk assessment remains moderate, highlighting the importance of ongoing monitoring and management efforts to safeguard against potential emergencies.

With its notable presence in the community and contribution to both energy production and recreational activities, the Harrisville dam on Montello Creek stands as a significant landmark in water resource management in the region. As a local government-owned structure with a rich history and continued relevance in modern times, it serves as a testament to the intersection of human ingenuity, environmental stewardship, and climate resilience. For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Harrisville offers a captivating example of how a historic dam continues to play a vital role in shaping the landscape and meeting the needs of the surrounding area.