Summary
Built in 1925, this buttress-type dam serves primarily for recreational purposes, offering a storage capacity of 90 acre-feet and a maximum discharge of 1,280 cubic feet per second. With a structural height of 19 feet and a length of 400 feet, the dam has a low hazard potential and is currently considered to be in a not rated condition assessment.
Although Poplar is regulated by the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources (WIDNR) and undergoes regular inspections every 10 years, its emergency action plan and risk management measures are not fully documented. Despite this, the dam is deemed to have moderate risk, based on a risk assessment score of 3. With its uncontrolled spillway type and a surface area of 9 acres, Poplar dam presents a unique opportunity for water resource and climate enthusiasts to explore the intersection of dam infrastructure and environmental conservation efforts in the region.
Year Completed |
1925 |
Dam Length |
400 |
Dam Height |
19 |
River Or Stream |
POPLAR RIVER |
Primary Dam Type |
Buttress |
Surface Area |
9 |
Hydraulic Height |
15 |
Drainage Area |
28 |
Nid Storage |
90 |
Structural Height |
19 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Nid Height |
19 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Bois Brule River At Brule
|
183cfs |
Nemadji River Near South Superior
|
93cfs |
Knife River Near Two Harbors
|
9cfs |
St. Louis River At Scanlon
|
517cfs |
North Fish Creek Near Moquah
|
55cfs |
Namekagon River At Leonards
|
111cfs |
Dam Data Reference
Condition Assessment
SatisfactoryNo 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
HighDams 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.
Amnicon Falls State Park Campground
Amnicon Falls
Boise Brule - Brule River State Forest
Copper Range - Brule River State Forest
Brule River State Forest (hike-in)
Poplar