Spooner Electric, also known as the Tommy Thompson Fish Hatchery, is a state-owned facility located in Spooner, Wisconsin, along the Yellow River.
Wind
Humidity
This gravity dam, completed in 1905, serves primarily for recreational purposes with a storage capacity of 1,500 acre-feet and a maximum discharge of 2,100 cfs. With a structural height of 20 feet and a hydraulic height of 16 feet, the dam spans 1,120 feet and covers a drainage area of 36.5 square miles.
Despite its significant hazard potential, Spooner Electric has been assessed to be in satisfactory condition as of June 2018. The dam is regulated, permitted, inspected, and enforced by the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources, ensuring its safety and compliance with state regulations. While the emergency action plan was last revised in 1995, the facility meets guidelines for risk management and has a very high risk assessment ranking of 1, indicating the need for vigilant monitoring and maintenance to mitigate potential risks in the future.
Water resource and climate enthusiasts can appreciate Spooner Electric for its historical significance, its role in supporting recreational activities, and the importance of proper dam management and maintenance to ensure public safety and environmental protection. The dam's location in Washburn County, its controlled spillway, and its critical infrastructure make it a vital component of the local water system. As climate change continues to impact water resources, understanding the functions and risks associated with structures like Spooner Electric becomes increasingly crucial for sustainable water management and adaptation strategies.
Year Completed |
1905 |
Dam Length |
1120 |
Dam Height |
20 |
River Or Stream |
YELLOW |
Primary Dam Type |
Gravity |
Surface Area |
344 |
Hydraulic Height |
16 |
Drainage Area |
36.5 |
Nid Storage |
1500 |
Structural Height |
20 |
Hazard Potential |
Significant |
Nid Height |
20 |
St. Croix River Near Danbury
|
1650cfs |
Namekagon River At Leonards
|
111cfs |
Chippewa River At Bishops Bridge Near Winter
|
251cfs |
Chippewa River Near Bruce
|
668cfs |
Flambeau River Near Bruce
|
616cfs |
St. Croix River At St. Croix Falls
|
1470cfs |
| Location | Reservations | Toilets |
|---|---|---|
Shell Lake Municipal Campground
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Shell Lake Municipal Park
|
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Trego Lake County Park
|
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Trego Park
|
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Trego Town Park
|
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Earl Park
|