Namekagon Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Namekagon, a gravity dam located in Cable, Wisconsin, was completed in 1886 and serves primarily for recreation purposes.


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Summary

With a height of 9 feet and a length of 120 feet, the dam has a storage capacity of 19,700 acre-feet and covers a surface area of 3,208 acres. The dam regulates the flow of the Namekagon River, which has a drainage area of 47.7 square miles and a maximum discharge of 1,197 cubic feet per second.

This structure, under the regulation of the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources, has a high hazard potential but is currently in satisfactory condition. The dam has undergone modifications in 1926 and 1999, with the last inspection conducted in May 2018. Despite its age, Namekagon Dam continues to play a crucial role in managing water resources and ensuring the safety of surrounding communities. With its picturesque location and historical significance, it remains a focal point for water resource and climate enthusiasts interested in exploring the intersection of human engineering and natural landscapes in the Midwest.

As climate change intensifies and water resources become increasingly strained, the management and maintenance of dams like Namekagon will be crucial in safeguarding ecosystems and communities. With its controlled spillway and state-regulated operations, Namekagon stands as a testament to the ongoing efforts to balance human needs with environmental preservation. As enthusiasts and policymakers alike continue to engage with issues of water resource management and climate resilience, structures like Namekagon serve as both a reminder of the past and a beacon for sustainable practices in the future.

Years Modified

1926 - Other, 1999 - Other

Year Completed

1886

Dam Length

120

Dam Height

9

River Or Stream

NAMEKAGON

Primary Dam Type

Gravity

Surface Area

3208

Hydraulic Height

4

Drainage Area

47.7

Nid Storage

19700

Structural Height

9

Hazard Potential

High

Nid Height

9
       
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.