Tilleda Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 6, 2025

Tilleda, located in Shawano, Wisconsin, is a gravity dam on the North Branch Embarrass River completed in 1910 for recreational purposes.


°F

°F

mph

Wind

%

Humidity

Summary

It stands at 17 feet tall with a hydraulic height of 15 feet and a length of 82 feet, holding a storage capacity of 160 acre-feet. The dam's hazard potential is classified as high, with a very high risk assessment rating.

Despite its age, Tilleda's condition was assessed as satisfactory during the last inspection in September 2019, with inspections occurring every two years. The dam is regulated by the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources, ensuring proper permitting, inspection, and enforcement. The surrounding area covers 28 acres with a drainage area of 70.5 square miles, making it a vital component of both water resource management and recreational activities in the region.

As a significant structure in the area, Tilleda plays a crucial role in managing water resources and providing recreational opportunities. With its historical significance and ongoing regulatory oversight, the dam continues to serve its purpose effectively while maintaining a high level of public safety. For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Tilleda represents a blend of engineering ingenuity, environmental stewardship, and recreational enjoyment in the heart of Wisconsin.

Years Modified

1996 - Other

Year Completed

1910

Dam Length

82

Dam Height

17

River Or Stream

NORTH BRANCH EMBARRASS

Primary Dam Type

Gravity

Surface Area

28

Hydraulic Height

15

Drainage Area

70.5

Nid Storage

160

Structural Height

17

Hazard Potential

High

Nid Height

17
       
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.