Waubeka Reservoir Report

Nearby: Newburg Ehne

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Located in Waubeka, Wisconsin, the Waubeka dam stands as a significant structure with a primary purpose of hydroelectric power generation.


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Summary

Completed in 1925, this gravity dam reaches a height of 10 feet and spans 270 feet in length, with a storage capacity of 120 acre-feet. Situated on the Milwaukee River, this dam serves multiple purposes including recreation and water resource management.

With a drainage area of 412 square miles and a maximum discharge capacity of 3,200 cubic feet per second, the Waubeka dam plays a crucial role in regulating water flow in the region. Despite being designated as having a significant hazard potential, the dam's condition assessment remains unrated, highlighting the need for ongoing monitoring and maintenance. The risk assessment for the dam is classified as very high, indicating the importance of implementing effective risk management measures to ensure the safety and integrity of this vital infrastructure.

As a privately owned structure, the Waubeka dam is subject to state regulation and oversight by the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources (WIDNR). With a history spanning nearly a century, this dam continues to be a focal point for water resource and climate enthusiasts, showcasing the intersection of human ingenuity and environmental stewardship in harnessing the power of water for the benefit of the community.

Year Completed

1925

Dam Length

270

Dam Height

10

River Or Stream

MILWAUKEE

Primary Dam Type

Gravity

Surface Area

20

Hydraulic Height

6

Drainage Area

412

Nid Storage

120

Structural Height

10

Hazard Potential

Significant

Nid Height

10
       
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.