Ormsby is a privately owned dam nestled in the heart of Langlade, Wisconsin, along the West Branch Eau Claire River.
Wind
Humidity
Built in 1901, this gravity dam stands at a height of 12 feet and spans 380 feet in length, creating a storage capacity of 125 acre-feet for recreational use. With a controlled spillway and a maximum discharge of 884 cubic feet per second, Ormsby serves as a vital recreational hub for the local community.
Despite its age, Ormsby has been well-maintained, with a fair condition assessment and a low hazard potential. Regular inspections are conducted every 10 years to ensure the dam's structural integrity and safety. The risk assessment for Ormsby is categorized as very high, emphasizing the importance of ongoing risk management measures to mitigate any potential dangers associated with the dam.
For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Ormsby offers a fascinating glimpse into the intersection of human infrastructure and natural landscapes. As a key feature along the West Branch Eau Claire River, this historic dam provides both recreational opportunities and important water storage capabilities, highlighting the delicate balance between human needs and environmental stewardship in the management of our water resources.
Years Modified |
1950 - Other, 2001 - Other |
Year Completed |
1901 |
Dam Length |
380 |
Dam Height |
12 |
River Or Stream |
WEST BRANCH EAU CLAIRE |
Primary Dam Type |
Gravity |
Surface Area |
24 |
Hydraulic Height |
8 |
Drainage Area |
18 |
Nid Storage |
125 |
Structural Height |
12 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Nid Height |
12 |
Prairie River Near Merrill
|
104cfs |
Wisconsin River At Merrill
|
1490cfs |
Wolf River At Langlade
|
326cfs |
Eau Claire River At Kelly
|
280cfs |
Red River At Morgan Road Near Morgan
|
145cfs |
Wisconsin River At Rothschild
|
2280cfs |
| Location | Reservations | Toilets |
|---|---|---|
High Lake County Park
|
||
Langlade County Veterans Memorial Park
|
||
Game Lake Primitive
|
||
Antigo Lake RV Park
|