Shawano Paper Mills Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 6, 2025

Shawano Paper Mills, also known as Little Rapids, is a hydroelectric facility located in Shawano, Wisconsin, along the Wolf Creek.


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Summary

Built in 1974, this privately-owned dam serves multiple purposes, including hydroelectric power generation and recreation. With a gravity dam type and a height of 13 feet, it has a maximum storage capacity of 2400 acre-feet and covers a surface area of 330 acres.

Managed under the oversight of the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission, Shawano Paper Mills has a controlled spillway width of 102 feet and a maximum discharge capacity of 6000 cubic feet per second. Despite its low hazard potential, the facility's risk assessment is rated as very high, emphasizing the importance of risk management measures. While the condition assessment is currently unavailable, regular inspections are conducted with a frequency of every three years to ensure operational safety.

Shawano Paper Mills stands as a vital infrastructure for both energy production and recreational activities in the region. Its role in harnessing the power of water resources underscores the importance of sustainable practices in the face of changing climate patterns and environmental challenges.

Year Completed

1974

Dam Length

272

Dam Height

13

River Or Stream

Wolf Creek

Primary Dam Type

Gravity

Surface Area

330

Hydraulic Height

10.5

Drainage Area

1130

Nid Storage

2400

Outlet Gates

Slide (sluice gate) - 3, Tainter (radial) - 3

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Rock, Soil

Nid Height

13
       
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.