Belleville Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Belleville is a gravity dam located in Dane County, Wisconsin, along the Sugar River.


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Summary

Completed in 1860, this recreational dam stands at a height of 15 feet and has a hydraulic height of 11 feet. With a storage capacity of 260 acre-feet and a surface area of 112 acres, Belleville serves as a popular spot for outdoor activities and water recreation.

Despite its age, Belleville has a low hazard potential and is in satisfactory condition according to a 2012 assessment. The dam is regulated by the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources, with state permitting, inspection, and enforcement in place to ensure its safety and integrity. The risk assessment for Belleville categorizes it as having a very high risk level, although specific risk management measures are not detailed in the provided data.

Located within the Rock Island District, Belleville offers a picturesque setting for visitors to enjoy the natural beauty of the Sugar River. With its controlled spillway and historical significance, this dam continues to be a key feature for water resource and climate enthusiasts in the Belleville area.

Years Modified

1918 - Other

Year Completed

1860

Dam Length

230

Dam Height

15

River Or Stream

SUGAR

Primary Dam Type

Gravity

Surface Area

112

Hydraulic Height

11

Drainage Area

172

Nid Storage

260

Structural Height

15

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

15
       
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.