Brodhead Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 6, 2025

Brodhead, located in Green County, Wisconsin, is a gravity dam built in 1849 on the Sugar River.


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Summary

With a primary purpose of recreation, this dam stands at a height of 10 feet and has a hydraulic height of 7 feet. It has a storage capacity of 1,150 acre-feet and a normal storage of 350 acre-feet, serving as a popular spot for outdoor activities in the area.

The dam has undergone modifications in 1915 and 2003, and is regulated by the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources (WIDNR). It has a controlled spillway type with a width of 239 feet, and a low hazard potential. The condition assessment of the dam is rated as fair, with the last inspection conducted in May 2020. Despite its low hazard potential, the risk assessment for the dam is very high, highlighting the importance of ongoing monitoring and maintenance to ensure the safety of surrounding communities.

With its rich history dating back to the 19th century, Brodhead Dam continues to be a significant landmark in the region, attracting visitors for recreational activities such as fishing, boating, and wildlife viewing. As water resource and climate enthusiasts, it is crucial to stay informed about the state of dams like Brodhead to support their sustainable management and preservation for future generations to enjoy.

Years Modified

1915 - Other, 2003 - Other

Year Completed

1849

Dam Length

2800

Dam Height

10

River Or Stream

SUGAR

Primary Dam Type

Gravity

Surface Area

151

Hydraulic Height

7

Drainage Area

525

Nid Storage

1150

Structural Height

10

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

10
       
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.