Saratoga Mill Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Saratoga Mill, located in Waukesha, Wisconsin, is a historic gravity dam completed in 1836 for the primary purpose of recreation.


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Summary

With a structural height of 10 feet and a length of 130 feet, the dam holds a normal storage capacity of 81 acre-feet and covers a surface area of 24 acres. The dam regulates the Fox River and has a controlled spillway type to manage a maximum discharge of 1715 cubic feet per second.

Despite its age, Saratoga Mill maintains a fair condition assessment and a low hazard potential, making it a relatively safe structure. The dam is regulated by the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources and undergoes inspections every 10 years to ensure its continued safety and functionality. In the event of an emergency, the dam is equipped with an emergency action plan to mitigate risks and protect downstream communities.

Overall, Saratoga Mill stands as a testament to early engineering in Wisconsin and continues to provide recreational opportunities for locals and visitors alike. Its historic significance, combined with its role in water resource management, makes it a valuable asset in the region's landscape.

Years Modified

1904 - Other

Year Completed

1836

Dam Length

130

Dam Height

10

River Or Stream

FOX

Primary Dam Type

Gravity

Surface Area

24

Hydraulic Height

5

Drainage Area

120

Nid Storage

130

Structural Height

10

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

10
       
Seasonal Comparison

Weather Forecast

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.