Built in 1950 by HARZA ENGINEERING CO, this hydroelectric dam serves multiple purposes including flood risk reduction, hydroelectric power generation, and recreation. With a height of 34 feet and a hydraulic height of 38 feet, Castle Rock has a storage capacity of 175,000 acre-feet and a normal storage capacity of 136,000 acre-feet.
The dam has a spillway width of 480 feet and is classified as having a high hazard potential. Controlled by the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission, Castle Rock is not state-regulated but does require state permitting and enforcement. Despite its age, the dam's risk assessment is very high at level 1, indicating the need for ongoing monitoring and management measures to ensure its safety and functionality for the surrounding community.
Castle Rock's location in Adams County, Wisconsin, makes it a pivotal structure in managing the water resources of the region. With its significant storage capacity and role in hydroelectric power generation, the dam plays a crucial role in water management, flood control, and energy production in the area. As a popular recreational spot for locals and visitors alike, Castle Rock offers not only practical benefits but also serves as a scenic destination for water resource and climate enthusiasts to explore and appreciate the intersection of nature and infrastructure.
Wind
Humidity
Year Completed |
1950 |
Dam Length |
18700 |
Dam Height |
34 |
River Or Stream |
Wisconsin River |
Primary Dam Type |
Gravity |
Surface Area |
16640 |
Hydraulic Height |
38 |
Drainage Area |
6845 |
Nid Storage |
175000 |
Structural Height |
36 |
Outlet Gates |
Tainter (radial) - 18 |
Hazard Potential |
High |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
38 |
Lemonweir River At New Lisbon
|
261cfs |
Yellow River At Necedah
|
127cfs |
Wisconsin River Near Wisconsin Dells
|
6300cfs |
Tenmile Creek Near Nekoosa
|
524cfs |
Baraboo River Near Baraboo
|
304cfs |
Yellow River At Babcock
|
44cfs |
| Location | Reservations | Toilets |
|---|---|---|
Castle Rock Park Campground
|
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Comanchee
|
||
Winnebago
|
||
Castle Rock County Park
|
||
Adams County Castle Rock
|
||
Buckhorn State Park
|
Wisconsin River -- Access at Town Of Quincy Nr 19th Dr
Castle Rock Lake -- County Park Access (Juneau Co)
Castle Rock Lake --Castle Rock Park (Adams Co.)
Klein Creek/Castle Rock Flowage -- Access
Castle Rock Lake -- Buckhorn Wildlife Area - Nr 36th
Castle Rock Lake -- Buckhorn State Park - Nr 19th (Juneau Co)