Grandfather Falls, located in Lincoln, Wisconsin, is a gravity dam completed in 1906 for hydroelectric purposes on the Wisconsin River.
Wind
Humidity
With a height of 32 feet and a length of 700 feet, this impressive structure has a storage capacity of 2540 acre-feet and serves as a vital resource for the region. The dam boasts a controlled spillway with a width of 124 feet and is equipped with 7 Tainter (radial) outlet gates to manage water flow effectively.
Managed by a Public Utility, Grandfather Falls is under the jurisdiction of the state of Wisconsin and is regulated by the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission. Despite its high hazard potential, the dam's condition assessment is currently not available, reflecting the need for ongoing monitoring and maintenance. The surrounding area offers recreational opportunities, making it a popular destination for water resource and climate enthusiasts who appreciate the significance of this historic engineering marvel in the heart of Merrill.
Year Completed |
1906 |
Dam Length |
700 |
Dam Height |
32 |
River Or Stream |
Wisconsin River |
Primary Dam Type |
Gravity |
Surface Area |
200 |
Hydraulic Height |
32 |
Drainage Area |
2293 |
Nid Storage |
2540 |
Structural Height |
32 |
Outlet Gates |
Tainter (radial) - 7 |
Hazard Potential |
High |
Foundations |
Rock |
Nid Height |
32 |
Prairie River Near Merrill
|
104cfs |
Wisconsin River At Merrill
|
1490cfs |
Spirit River At Spirit Falls
|
25cfs |
Rib River At Rib Falls
|
60cfs |
Eau Claire River At Kelly
|
280cfs |
Wisconsin River At Rothschild
|
2280cfs |
| Location | Reservations | Toilets |
|---|---|---|
Camp New Wood County Park
|
||
Camp New Wood County Park Campground
|
||
Council Grounds State Park
|
||
Underdown County Park Campground
|
||
Sara Park
|