Fulton Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 6, 2025

Located in Rock, Wisconsin, the Fulton dam on the Yahara River was completed in 1849 and serves primarily for recreational purposes.


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Summary

Standing at 16 feet tall with a hydraulic height of 9 feet, this gravity dam spans 800 feet and has a storage capacity of 350 acre-feet. With a drainage area of 553 square miles, the dam has a maximum discharge capacity of 9,600 cubic feet per second and a surface area of 49 acres.

Despite being rated as having low hazard potential and not currently assessed for condition, the Fulton dam poses a very high risk due to its age and limited inspection history. The last recorded inspection took place in August 1994, with an inspection frequency of 10 years. The dam has a controlled spillway type and is regulated by the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources (WIDNR), with state jurisdiction, permitting, inspection, and enforcement in place.

Given the dam's historical significance and potential risk, enthusiasts of water resources and climate should be aware of the Fulton dam's condition and the need for regular monitoring and maintenance to ensure its continued safety and functionality. As a key landmark in the area, efforts to assess and mitigate risks associated with the dam are crucial to preserving the surrounding environment and protecting downstream communities from the potential impacts of dam failure.

Years Modified

1993 - Other

Year Completed

1849

Dam Length

800

Dam Height

16

River Or Stream

YAHARA

Primary Dam Type

Gravity

Surface Area

49

Hydraulic Height

9

Drainage Area

553

Nid Storage

350

Structural Height

16

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

16
       
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.