Bloomer Mill Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 6, 2025

Bloomer Mill, located in Chippewa, Wisconsin, is a historic gravity dam on Duncan Creek that was completed in 1856 for recreational purposes.


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Summary

With a height of 17 feet and a length of 460 feet, the dam has a maximum storage capacity of 945 acre-feet and serves as a vital water resource for the surrounding area. The dam has a controlled spillway type and a high hazard potential, which necessitates regular inspections and maintenance to ensure public safety.

Despite its age, Bloomer Mill is in satisfactory condition according to the most recent assessment conducted in February 2019. The dam has undergone modifications in 1909 and 2004 to improve its structural integrity and performance. The risk assessment of the dam indicates a very high risk level (level 1), prompting the need for robust risk management measures to mitigate potential hazards and ensure the continued safety and functionality of the dam. The dam is regulated by the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources and is subject to state permitting, inspection, and enforcement to uphold safety standards and compliance with regulations.

Years Modified

1909 - Other, 2004 - Other

Year Completed

1856

Dam Length

460

Dam Height

17

River Or Stream

Duncan Creek

Primary Dam Type

Gravity

Surface Area

98

Hydraulic Height

13

Drainage Area

48.3

Nid Storage

945

Structural Height

17

Hazard Potential

High

Nid Height

17
       
Seasonal Comparison

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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.