Summary
The dam, situated on the Plover River, stands at a height of 14 feet and stretches 250 feet in length, holding a storage capacity of 550 acre-feet. Despite its age, the dam is in fair condition and poses a low hazard potential according to a recent assessment.
Managed by a private owner, Bentley Sawmill is regulated by the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources, with state permitting, inspection, and enforcement in place to ensure its safe operation. The dam's risk assessment indicates a very high level of risk in the event of a breach, highlighting the importance of ongoing monitoring and maintenance. While the dam has not been significantly modified since 1945, efforts to improve its risk management measures may be necessary in the future to mitigate potential hazards and protect the surrounding area.
Water resource and climate enthusiasts interested in the Bentley Sawmill site can explore its historical significance, engineering features, and current risk profile. With its picturesque location along the Plover River and its role in providing recreation opportunities, the dam serves as a reminder of the intersection between human infrastructure and natural resources. As discussions around dam safety and climate resilience continue, Bentley Sawmill stands as a notable example of the importance of balancing preservation with risk management in the face of evolving environmental challenges.
°F
°F
mph
Wind
%
Humidity
15-Day Weather Outlook
Years Modified |
1945 - Other |
Year Completed |
1850 |
Dam Length |
250 |
Dam Height |
14 |
River Or Stream |
PLOVER RIVER |
Primary Dam Type |
Gravity |
Surface Area |
86 |
Hydraulic Height |
7 |
Drainage Area |
114 |
Nid Storage |
550 |
Structural Height |
14 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Nid Height |
14 |
Seasonal Comparison
5-Day Hourly Forecast Detail
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Tomorrow River Near Nelsonville
|
31cfs |
Wisconsin River At Rothschild
|
2840cfs |
Eau Claire River At Kelly
|
280cfs |
Wisconsin River At Wisconsin Rapids
|
4150cfs |
Rib River At Rib Falls
|
60cfs |
Tenmile Creek Near Nekoosa
|
524cfs |
Dam Data Reference
Condition Assessment
SatisfactoryNo 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
HighDams 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.
Area Campgrounds
| Location | Reservations | Toilets |
|---|---|---|
Jordan County Park Canoe Walk-In Campsites
|
||
Jordan Park Campground
|
||
Collins Park Campground
|
||
Collins Park
|
||
Boy Scouts of America: Camp Fletcher
|
Bentley Sawmill
Glisezinski Lake -- Access