Tilden Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 6, 2025

Tilden, located in Chippewa, Wisconsin, is a privately owned dam with a primary purpose of hydroelectric power generation.


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Summary

Built in 1886, this gravity dam stands at a height of 16 feet and has a storage capacity of 250 acre-feet. The dam, situated on Duncan Creek, also serves recreational purposes and covers a surface area of 61 acres within a drainage area of 110 acres.

Despite being categorized as having a low hazard potential and a moderate risk assessment, Tilden has undergone modifications in 1913 and 1933. The dam's last inspection took place in May 2009, with a scheduled inspection frequency of 10 years. While the condition assessment is not rated, the dam is state-regulated with permits, inspections, and enforcement carried out by the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources (WIDNR). Overall, Tilden remains a significant structure for water resource management in the region, showcasing the intersection of hydroelectric power generation and recreational activities along Duncan Creek.

Years Modified

1913 - Other, 1933 - Other

Year Completed

1886

Dam Length

115

Dam Height

16

River Or Stream

Duncan Creek

Primary Dam Type

Gravity

Surface Area

61

Hydraulic Height

14

Drainage Area

110

Nid Storage

250

Structural Height

16

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

16
       
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.