Alma Mill 4 Reservoir Report
Nearby: Alma Mill 6 Alma Mill 5
Last Updated: December 5, 2025
Alma Mill 4, also known as Russel Whitted, is a crucial structure located in Buffalo, Wisconsin, designed by the USDA NRCS to serve the primary purpose of debris control and flood risk reduction along the TR FIMIAN CREEK.
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Summary
This earth dam, completed in 1963, stands at a height of 32 feet and stretches 540 feet in length, with a storage capacity of 70 acre-feet. Despite its low hazard potential and satisfactory condition assessment, regular inspections every 10 years by the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources ensure its continued functionality and safety.
Situated in a picturesque location with a surface area of 4 acres and a drainage area of 0.2 square miles, Alma Mill 4 plays a vital role in managing water flow and mitigating potential flood risks. Its uncontrolled spillway type and maximum discharge capacity of 1240 cubic feet per second highlight its importance in protecting the surrounding areas from potential inundation during heavy rainfall events. With State regulation, permitting, and inspection in place, Alma Mill 4 stands as a testament to effective water resource management and climate resilience efforts in the region.
Managed by local government authorities and nestled within the Detroit District, Alma Mill 4 exemplifies a successful collaboration between federal and state agencies, with the Natural Resources Conservation Service overseeing its design and operation. With a moderate risk assessment in place, continuous monitoring and adherence to guidelines ensure the structure's ability to withstand any potential emergencies. As a critical component in the region's water infrastructure, Alma Mill 4 stands as a testament to the importance of sustainable water resource management and climate adaptation strategies in safeguarding communities from environmental hazards.
Year Completed |
1963 |
Dam Length |
540 |
Dam Height |
32 |
River Or Stream |
TR FIMIAN CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
4 |
Hydraulic Height |
27 |
Drainage Area |
0.2 |
Nid Storage |
70 |
Structural Height |
32 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Nid Height |
32 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Zumbro River At Kellogg
|
1550cfs |
Trempealeau River At Arcadia
|
400cfs |
Chippewa River At Durand
|
3450cfs |
Trempealeau River At Dodge
|
953cfs |
Mississippi River At Winona
|
13700cfs |
Black River Near Galesville
|
862cfs |
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.
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