Upper Watertown Reservoir Report
Nearby: Lower Watertown Dam Monterey
Last Updated: December 6, 2025
Upper Watertown, located in the city of Watertown, Wisconsin, is a private hydroelectric dam on the Rock River that was completed in 1909.
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Summary
This buttress dam stands at a height of 12 feet and has a length of 278 feet, with a storage capacity of 720 acre-feet and a normal storage level of 550 acre-feet. With a low hazard potential and moderate risk assessment, this dam is regulated by the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission and permitted by the state, but not inspected by the state agency.
The dam features an uncontrolled spillway with a width of 173 feet and 12 slide (sluice gate) outlet gates. Although the condition assessment is not available, an emergency action plan was last revised in March 2021. The dam poses a moderate risk, but meets guidelines for emergency preparedness and does not have inundation maps prepared. Despite its age, Upper Watertown continues to be a key structure for water resource management, highlighting the intersection of history, engineering, and climate resilience in the region.
With its rich history, unique design features, and critical role in hydroelectric power generation, Upper Watertown is a fascinating site for water resource and climate enthusiasts. The dam's location on the Rock River, its association with the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission, and its low hazard potential make it a noteworthy structure for those interested in the intersection of water management, infrastructure, and environmental stewardship. As efforts to address climate change and promote sustainable energy sources continue, Upper Watertown serves as a reminder of the important role that historic dams play in our modern water infrastructure systems.
Year Completed |
1909 |
Dam Length |
278 |
Dam Height |
12 |
River Or Stream |
Rock River |
Primary Dam Type |
Buttress |
Surface Area |
64 |
Drainage Area |
970 |
Nid Storage |
720 |
Outlet Gates |
Slide (sluice gate) - 12 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
12 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Rock River At Watertown
|
295cfs |
Crawfish River At Milford
|
266cfs |
Bark River Near Rome
|
76cfs |
Bark River At Nagawicka Road At Delafield
|
26cfs |
Rock River At Horicon
|
77cfs |
Rock River At Robert Street At Fort Atkinson
|
506cfs |
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.
Upper Watertown
Rock River -- Access at Water St In Watertown
Dan C Brandenstein Park
Timothy Johnson Park
Brandt Quirk Park
Chaffee Road Park
Blain Street Park