Atlas Feed Mill Reservoir Report

Nearby: Foerst Bohn

Last Updated: December 6, 2025

Atlas Feed Mill, also known as Long Trade Lake, is a gravity dam located in Polk, Wisconsin, along the Trade River.


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Summary

Built in 1874 for recreational purposes, this dam stands at a height of 14 feet with a hydraulic height of 11 feet and a structural height of 14 feet. It has a length of 92 feet and a storage capacity of 1610 acre-feet, with a normal storage level of 1100 acre-feet and a drainage area of 45 square miles.

The dam has a significant hazard potential and is classified as having a very high risk level. Despite its fair condition assessment in 2020, the dam has been modified in 1921 and 1994 for various reasons. The last inspection was conducted in November 2019, with a frequency of every 3 years. The dam is state regulated by the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources (WIDNR) and has state permitting, inspection, and enforcement in place to ensure its safety and compliance with regulations.

With its historical significance dating back over a century and its importance for recreation and hydroelectric purposes, Atlas Feed Mill serves as a vital structure in the region. As water resource and climate enthusiasts, understanding the intricacies of this dam and its management by local government agencies can provide valuable insights into the intersection of water management, infrastructure safety, and environmental stewardship in the area.

Years Modified

1921 - Other, 1994 - Other

Year Completed

1874

Dam Length

92

Dam Height

14

River Or Stream

Trade River

Primary Dam Type

Gravity

Surface Area

153

Hydraulic Height

11

Drainage Area

45

Nid Storage

1610

Structural Height

14

Hazard Potential

Significant

Nid Height

14
       
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.