West Bend, located in Washington County, Wisconsin, is home to a gravity dam on the Milwaukee River that was completed in 1846 for recreational purposes. The dam, with a height of 13 feet and a length of 275 feet, has a storage capacity of 460 acre-feet and serves as a controlled spillway with a maximum discharge of 4,160 cubic feet per second. Despite being classified as low hazard potential with fair condition assessment, the dam is subject to regular state inspections, permitting, and enforcement by the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources.

With a very high risk assessment rating of 1, West Bend's dam poses potential challenges that require ongoing risk management measures. Although the dam has not been significantly modified since 1943, the local government continues to prioritize safety and emergency preparedness, with a 10-year inspection frequency and updated hazard potential assessments. The presence of the dam on the Milwaukee River not only offers recreational opportunities but also underscores the importance of sustainable water resource management and climate resilience efforts in the region. As climate change impacts become more pronounced, ensuring the safety and integrity of water infrastructure like the West Bend dam will be crucial for the community's long-term well-being.