Spirit Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 7, 2025

Spirit is a historic hydroelectric dam located in Lincoln, Wisconsin, along the Spirit River.


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Summary

Built in 1922, this gravity dam stands at a height of 26 feet and has a length of 2530 feet. With a storage capacity of 15,427 acre-feet and a maximum discharge of 16,700 cubic feet per second, Spirit serves multiple purposes including flood risk reduction and hydroelectric power generation.

Managed by the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission, Spirit has a controlled spillway and two Tainter radial gates for outlet control. Despite its age, the dam is categorized as having a high hazard potential and a very high risk assessment. While regular inspections are conducted, the condition assessment is currently not available, highlighting the need for ongoing monitoring and maintenance to ensure the safety and functionality of this critical water resource infrastructure.

For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Spirit represents a fascinating blend of history, engineering, and environmental management. As a key player in the region's water management system, Spirit serves as a reminder of the intricate balance between harnessing water for energy production and mitigating the risks associated with dam infrastructure. With its high hazard potential and risk assessment, Spirit underscores the importance of proactive risk management strategies to safeguard both the environment and surrounding communities in the face of changing climate conditions.

Year Completed

1922

Dam Length

2530

Dam Height

26

River Or Stream

Spirit River

Primary Dam Type

Gravity

Surface Area

1698

Drainage Area

158

Nid Storage

15427

Outlet Gates

Tainter (radial) - 2

Hazard Potential

High

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

26
       
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.