Summary
Built in 1956 by the USDA NRCS, this earth-type dam stands at a height of 35 feet and has a length of 580 feet, with a storage capacity of 257 acre-feet. Despite its significant role in mitigating flood hazards, Mlsna has been rated as having a high hazard potential and an unsatisfactory condition assessment, highlighting the need for ongoing maintenance and improvements to ensure its effectiveness in safeguarding the surrounding area.
Managed by the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources, Mlsna undergoes regular inspections every two years to assess its structural integrity and operational readiness. With a maximum discharge capacity of 1800 cubic feet per second and an uncontrolled spillway type, the dam poses moderate risks that necessitate risk management measures to enhance its resilience and emergency preparedness. Although Mlsna's primary purpose is flood risk reduction, it also serves as a debris control mechanism within its drainage area of 1.5 square miles, demonstrating its multifaceted role in water resource management and climate resilience in the region.
In light of its critical importance in protecting the community from flood events and ensuring water security, Mlsna stands as a focal point for collaboration and investment in sustainable infrastructure solutions. With state-regulated permitting and inspection processes in place, the dam represents a key component of the local watershed management strategy, requiring concerted efforts to address its current condition and enhance its long-term functionality for the benefit of both present and future generations.
Year Completed |
1956 |
Dam Length |
580 |
Dam Height |
35 |
River Or Stream |
TR KNAPP CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
18 |
Hydraulic Height |
35 |
Drainage Area |
1.5 |
Nid Storage |
257 |
Structural Height |
35 |
Hazard Potential |
High |
Nid Height |
35 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Kickapoo River At State Highway 33 At Ontario
|
149cfs |
Kickapoo River At La Farge
|
219cfs |
La Crosse River At Sparta
|
142cfs |
La Crosse River Near La Crosse
|
348cfs |
Lemonweir River At New Lisbon
|
261cfs |
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.
Area Campgrounds
| Location | Reservations | Toilets |
|---|---|---|
Campsite T
|
||
Campsite S
|
||
Wildcat Mountain State Park
|
||
Wildcat Mountain State Park Campground
|
||
Campsite H
|
||
La Farge City Park
|
Mlsna
Von Ruden Memorial Park
Wildcat Mountain State Park
Esofea Park