Barton Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Barton, also known as Gadow Mill, is a gravity dam located in West Bend, Wisconsin, along the Milwaukee River.


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Summary

Built in 1846, this dam serves primarily for recreational purposes, offering a surface area of 18 acres and a normal storage capacity of 90 acre-feet. With a height of 14 feet and a hydraulic height of 10 feet, Barton has a maximum discharge capacity of 2,793 cubic feet per second.

Managed by the local government and regulated by the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources, Barton has a high hazard potential due to its age and location. However, recent inspections have deemed its condition as satisfactory, with a risk assessment rating of very high. Despite its age and potential risks, Barton continues to be a popular spot for recreation and water enthusiasts in the Washington County area.

In order to ensure the safety and longevity of Barton, regular inspections are conducted, with the most recent assessment taking place in January 2020. With a risk management plan in place and emergency action preparedness being evaluated periodically, Barton remains an important resource for both the local community and the surrounding environment.

Years Modified

1924 - Other

Year Completed

1846

Dam Length

280

Dam Height

14

River Or Stream

MILWAUKEE

Primary Dam Type

Gravity

Surface Area

18

Hydraulic Height

10

Drainage Area

213

Nid Storage

170

Structural Height

14

Hazard Potential

High

Nid Height

14
       
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.