Cornell Reservoir Report
Nearby: Holcombe Holcombe Dike
Last Updated: December 6, 2025
Cornell Dam, located in Jim Falls, Wisconsin, is a significant hydroelectric structure on the Chippewa River, completed in 1913.
°F
°F
mph
Wind
%
Humidity
Summary
Managed by a public utility, the dam stands at a height of 58 feet and spans 860 feet in length, with a storage capacity of 6600 acre-feet. With a maximum discharge of 176,000 cubic feet per second, the dam serves both hydroelectric and recreational purposes, contributing to the region's water resource management and energy generation.
Operated under the jurisdiction of the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission, Cornell Dam has a controlled spillway and 14 Tainter radial outlet gates. The dam's hazard potential is deemed significant, with a very high risk assessment ranking. Despite the lack of available condition assessment data, the dam's emergency action plan was last revised in December 2019. The dam's location and design, situated on rock foundations, showcase its structural integrity and importance in regulating the Chippewa River's flow.
As a key feature on the Chippewa River, Cornell Dam plays a crucial role in water management and energy production for the surrounding area. With its historical significance and ongoing regulatory oversight by federal agencies, the dam exemplifies the intersection of water resources and climate considerations in sustainable infrastructure development. Its operation and maintenance reflect a commitment to public safety and environmental stewardship in harnessing the power of water for the benefit of the community.
Year Completed |
1913 |
Dam Length |
860 |
Dam Height |
58 |
River Or Stream |
Chippewa River |
Primary Dam Type |
Gravity |
Surface Area |
800 |
Drainage Area |
4780 |
Nid Storage |
6600 |
Outlet Gates |
Tainter (radial) - 14 |
Hazard Potential |
Significant |
Foundations |
Rock |
Nid Height |
58 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Jump River At Sheldon
|
155cfs |
Flambeau River Near Bruce
|
616cfs |
Chippewa River Near Bruce
|
668cfs |
Chippewa River At Chippewa Falls
|
1460cfs |
Red Cedar River Near Colfax
|
593cfs |
Hay River At Wheeler
|
235cfs |
Dam Data Reference
Condition Assessment
SatisfactoryNo 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
HighDams 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.
Cornell
Chippewa River/Cornell Flowage -- Access