Linen Mill Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Linen Mill, also known as McArthur, is a historic hydroelectric dam located in Baraboo, Wisconsin.


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Summary

Built in 1928, this gravity dam stands at a height of 11 feet and has a length of 155 feet. The dam serves multiple purposes, including hydroelectric power generation and recreation, with a normal storage capacity of 45 acre-feet and a maximum storage of 95 acre-feet.

The dam is situated on the Baraboo River, with a drainage area of 583 square miles. With a maximum discharge of 1700 cubic feet per second, the dam has been classified as having a significant hazard potential. Although the condition of the dam is currently not rated, it undergoes regular inspections with a frequency of every 3 years to ensure its safety and compliance with state regulations.

Overall, Linen Mill plays a crucial role in the local water resource management and energy generation in the region. Its historical significance, combined with its operational importance, makes it a key infrastructure for water resource and climate enthusiasts to study and monitor in the context of sustainable development and climate resilience efforts.

Year Completed

1928

Dam Length

155

Dam Height

11

River Or Stream

BARABOO

Primary Dam Type

Gravity

Surface Area

6

Hydraulic Height

8

Drainage Area

583

Nid Storage

95

Structural Height

11

Hazard Potential

Significant

Nid Height

11
       
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.