Chilton Reservoir Report

Nearby: Hayton Kiel

Last Updated: December 6, 2025

Chilton, located in Calumet, Wisconsin, is a gravity dam on the South Branch Manitowoc River with a primary purpose of recreation.


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Summary

Built in 1850, this dam stands at a height of 13 feet and spans 80 feet in length, offering a storage capacity of 90 acre-feet. The dam plays a crucial role in regulating water flow and providing recreational opportunities in the area.

Managed by the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources (WIDNR), Chilton is subject to state regulations, inspections, and enforcement to ensure its safe operation. With a high hazard potential and a satisfactory condition assessment as of December 2019, the dam poses a moderate risk that is being actively managed. The dam has undergone modifications in 1954 and 1991, demonstrating a commitment to its maintenance and longevity.

Overall, Chilton serves as a vital structure within the local water resource management system, contributing to flood control, water storage, and recreational activities. Its historical significance as one of the early dams in the region adds to its value as a cultural and environmental asset. As water resource and climate enthusiasts, understanding the role of dams like Chilton in sustaining ecosystems and providing recreational benefits is essential for promoting sustainable water management practices in the area.

Years Modified

1954 - Other, 1991 - Other

Year Completed

1850

Dam Length

80

Dam Height

13

River Or Stream

SOUTH BRANCH MANITOWOC

Primary Dam Type

Gravity

Surface Area

46

Hydraulic Height

9

Drainage Area

75

Nid Storage

90

Structural Height

13

Hazard Potential

High

Nid Height

13
       
Seasonal Comparison

Weather Forecast

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.