Richardson Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Richardson, located in Sheboygan Falls, Wisconsin, is a privately owned dam on the Mullet River with a primary purpose of recreation.


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Summary

Built in 1857, this gravity dam stands at a height of 12 feet and has a length of 2800 feet, providing a storage capacity of 50 acre-feet. Despite its historical significance, Richardson is currently assessed to be in poor condition, with a low hazard potential but a very high risk assessment rating of 1.

The dam, regulated by the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources, poses a significant risk due to its poor condition and outdated infrastructure. Although it has undergone modifications in 1935, Richardson lacks proper emergency action plans and does not meet modern safety guidelines. With a maximum discharge of 3000 cubic feet per second, the dam's controlled spillway and limited storage capacity raise concerns for downstream flooding and environmental impact. Climate enthusiasts and water resource advocates may find Richardson's historical importance and current risk assessment a compelling case study for the need for proper dam maintenance and modernization to ensure public safety and environmental protection.

Years Modified

1935 - Other

Year Completed

1857

Dam Length

2800

Dam Height

12

River Or Stream

MULLET

Primary Dam Type

Gravity

Surface Area

8

Hydraulic Height

8

Drainage Area

85

Nid Storage

50

Structural Height

12

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

12
       
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Dam Data Reference

Condition Assessment

Satisfactory
No 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

High
Dams 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.