Parfrey is a historic earth dam located in Richland Center, Wisconsin, completed in 1856 for the primary purpose of recreation.
Wind
Humidity
With a height of 19 feet and a hydraulic height of 11 feet, the dam holds a storage capacity of 290 acre-feet and serves a drainage area of 189 square miles. The dam spans 450 feet in length and has a surface area of 39 acres, making it a significant feature on the Pine River.
Although rated as having a low hazard potential and not yet assessed for condition, Parfrey poses a very high risk due to its age and the lack of recent inspections. The dam is regulated by the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources (WIDNR) and has state permitting, inspection, and enforcement in place. Despite its risk level, the dam has not been rated for condition assessment, emergency action planning, or risk management measures, highlighting the need for proactive maintenance and monitoring to ensure the safety and integrity of this historic structure for water resource and climate enthusiasts.
Years Modified |
1934 - Other |
Year Completed |
1856 |
Dam Length |
450 |
Dam Height |
19 |
River Or Stream |
PINE |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
39 |
Hydraulic Height |
11 |
Drainage Area |
189 |
Nid Storage |
290 |
Structural Height |
19 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Nid Height |
19 |
Wisconsin River At Muscoda
|
4800cfs |
Kickapoo River At La Farge
|
219cfs |
Kickapoo River At Steuben
|
392cfs |
Kickapoo River At State Highway 33 At Ontario
|
149cfs |
Black Earth Creek At Black Earth
|
34cfs |
Wisconsin River Near Wisconsin Dells
|
3240cfs |
| Location | Reservations | Toilets |
|---|---|---|
Pier Natural Bridge County Park
|
||
Eagle Cave Campground
|
||
Muscoda Campground
|
||
Victoria Riverside Park - Muscoda
|
||
Avoca Lakeside City Campground
|