Caroline Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 6, 2025

Caroline is a gravity dam located in Shawano, Wisconsin, along the Middle Branch Embarrass River.


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Summary

Built in 1878, this historic structure stands at a height of 13 feet and spans 340 feet in length, with a storage capacity of 190 acre-feet. The dam serves multiple purposes, including hydroelectric power generation, recreation, and other uses, making it a vital component of the local water resource infrastructure.

Despite its age, Caroline has been well-maintained and is deemed to have low hazard potential, with a satisfactory condition assessment as of August 2018. The dam is regulated by the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources, which oversees its permitting, inspection, and enforcement processes. In the event of an emergency, the dam's risk assessment indicates a very high level of potential impact, necessitating a comprehensive risk management plan to mitigate any potential threats to the surrounding community and environment.

Caroline's strategic location and historical significance make it a key feature in the water resource landscape of the region. With its blend of functionality and recreational appeal, the dam continues to play a crucial role in supporting both local needs and environmental sustainability. For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Caroline represents a fascinating intersection of history, engineering, and environmental stewardship in the heart of Wisconsin.

Years Modified

1944 - Other

Year Completed

1878

Dam Length

340

Dam Height

13

River Or Stream

MIDDLE BRANCH EMBARRASS

Primary Dam Type

Gravity

Surface Area

33

Hydraulic Height

9

Drainage Area

247

Nid Storage

190

Structural Height

13

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

13
       
Seasonal Comparison

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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.