Ogdensburg Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 6, 2025

Located in Waupaca, Wisconsin, Ogdensburg is a gravity dam on Engibretson Creek that was completed in 1845 for recreational purposes and water supply.


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Summary

With a height of 7 feet and a length of 460 feet, the dam has a normal storage capacity of 185 acre-feet and a maximum discharge of 2250 cubic feet per second. The spillway is controlled and 27 feet wide, ensuring proper water management during high flow events.

Despite being in satisfactory condition according to a 2019 assessment, Ogdensburg poses a high hazard potential due to its location and design. The risk assessment ranks it as very high (1), highlighting the need for regular inspections and maintenance to prevent any potential disasters. The dam is regulated by the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources, which conducts inspections, enforcement, and permitting to ensure compliance with state regulations.

Ogdensburg's role in providing recreational opportunities and water supply makes it a crucial infrastructure in the region. With its historical significance dating back to the 19th century, the dam continues to serve the community while facing challenges related to its high hazard potential. Climate and water resource enthusiasts can appreciate the intricate balance between preservation and safety that Ogdensburg represents in the context of sustainable water management practices.

Years Modified

1974 - Other

Year Completed

1845

Dam Length

460

Dam Height

7

River Or Stream

ENGIBRETSON CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Gravity

Surface Area

62

Hydraulic Height

6

Drainage Area

9.4

Nid Storage

250

Structural Height

7

Hazard Potential

High

Nid Height

7
       
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.