Rodolf Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Rodolf, also known as Balmoral, is a gravity dam located in Richland, Wisconsin, along the Mill Creek.


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Summary

Built in 1840 for hydroelectric purposes, Rodolf stands at a structural height of 21.3 feet and a hydraulic height of 15 feet. With a dam length of 200 feet and a maximum discharge capacity of 3650 cubic feet per second, the dam has a storage capacity of 500 acre-feet and covers a surface area of 42 acres.

Managed by the local government and regulated by the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources, Rodolf is primarily used for hydroelectric power generation and recreation. Despite being classified as having a low hazard potential, the dam underwent modifications in 1922. The last inspection in September 2009 deemed Rodolf's condition as not rated, with an inspection frequency of 10 years and a moderate risk rating of 3. The dam's emergency action plan and risk management measures are currently not specified.

For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Rodolf serves as a historical and functional structure that contributes to the local energy production and recreational activities. With its picturesque location in Richland, Wisconsin, the dam's role in harnessing hydroelectric power while maintaining a moderate risk level highlights the importance of ongoing monitoring and maintenance to ensure its long-term sustainability and safety.

Years Modified

1922 - Other

Year Completed

1840

Dam Length

200

Dam Height

21.3

River Or Stream

MILL CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Gravity

Surface Area

42

Hydraulic Height

15

Drainage Area

94

Nid Storage

500

Structural Height

21.3

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

21
       
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.