Hickerson Roller Mill Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Hickerson Roller Mill, located in Grantsburg, Wisconsin, is a historic gravity dam completed in 1864 for recreational purposes along the Wood River.


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Summary

With a dam height of 13 feet and a hydraulic height of 7 feet, this structure spans 500 feet in length and has a storage capacity of 50 acre-feet. The dam's controlled spillway and low hazard potential make it a picturesque destination for water resource and climate enthusiasts.

Despite its age, Hickerson Roller Mill has undergone modifications in 1950 and 1994 to ensure its structural integrity. The dam is state-regulated by the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources, with regular inspections and enforcement measures in place. The risk assessment for this dam is rated very high (1), indicating the need for proper risk management measures to mitigate any potential hazards.

Visitors to Hickerson Roller Mill can appreciate its historical significance and natural beauty, as well as the important role it plays in managing water resources in the area. With its serene surroundings and well-maintained infrastructure, this dam is a unique destination for those interested in both the preservation of historical structures and the sustainable use of water resources in Wisconsin.

Years Modified

1950 - Other, 1994 - Other

Year Completed

1864

Dam Length

500

Dam Height

13

River Or Stream

WOOD

Primary Dam Type

Gravity

Surface Area

10

Hydraulic Height

7

Drainage Area

152

Nid Storage

50

Structural Height

13

Hazard Potential

Low

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.