Ormsby Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 6, 2025

Ormsby is a privately owned dam nestled in the heart of Langlade, Wisconsin, along the West Branch Eau Claire River.


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Summary

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
       
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.