Stanley Mill Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 13, 2025

Stanley Mill, located in Chippewa, Wisconsin, along the Wolf River, is a historic gravity dam that was completed in 1890 for recreation purposes.


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Summary

The dam stands at 22 feet tall with a length of 670 feet, creating a reservoir with a storage capacity of 400 acre-feet. Despite being over a century old, Stanley Mill is still in satisfactory condition, with inspections conducted every three years to ensure its integrity. The dam has a significant hazard potential, but proper risk management measures are in place to mitigate any potential issues.

The dam's spillway, with a width of 150 feet, is of the controlled type, ensuring proper water release during periods of high flow. The surrounding area offers a surface area of 34 acres for recreational activities, attracting water resource and climate enthusiasts alike. With a drainage area of 31 square miles and a maximum discharge capacity of 4160 cubic feet per second, Stanley Mill plays a crucial role in managing water flow in the region. Additionally, the dam has undergone several modifications over the years to enhance its functionality and safety, with the most recent one in 2010.

Managed by the local government and regulated by the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources, Stanley Mill serves as a vital part of the water infrastructure in the area. The dam's location in S26, T29N, R5W, combined with its historical significance and recreational value, makes it a popular destination for visitors interested in water resources and climate resilience. As climate change continues to impact water availability and management, Stanley Mill stands as a testament to the importance of sustainable water resource practices for future generations.

Years Modified

1922 - Other, 1967 - Other, 1984 - Other, 1988 - Other, 2010 - Other

Year Completed

1890

Dam Length

670

Dam Height

22

River Or Stream

Wolf River

Primary Dam Type

Gravity

Surface Area

34

Hydraulic Height

13

Drainage Area

31

Nid Storage

400

Structural Height

22

Hazard Potential

Significant

Nid Height

22
       
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.