Situated in Marathon, Wisconsin, the Rothschild Dam, completed in 1911, stands as a historic landmark on the Wisconsin River.
Wind
Humidity
Owned privately, the dam serves multiple purposes including hydroelectric power generation, recreation, wildlife conservation, and water supply for the surrounding area. With a height of 27 feet and a length of 883 feet, the dam boasts a normal storage capacity of 13,900 acre-feet and a maximum discharge rate of 84,000 cubic feet per second.
Managed by the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission, the Rothschild Dam has a high hazard potential due to its location and design. It features a controlled spillway with a width of 631 feet and ten radial outlet gates for water control. Despite its age, the dam's condition assessment is not available, highlighting the importance of regular inspection and maintenance to ensure its structural integrity and safety for nearby communities and ecosystems. The dam's risk assessment categorizes it as very high, underscoring the critical need for effective risk management measures to mitigate potential hazards.
In the event of an emergency, the dam does not have an Emergency Action Plan prepared, indicating a potential gap in readiness for unforeseen events. With its rich history, significant impact on the environment and community, and key role in water resource management, the Rothschild Dam remains a focal point for water resource and climate enthusiasts seeking to understand the intersection of infrastructure, sustainability, and risk management in the face of a changing climate.
Year Completed |
1911 |
Dam Length |
883 |
Dam Height |
27 |
River Or Stream |
Wisconsin River |
Primary Dam Type |
Gravity |
Surface Area |
1604 |
Hydraulic Height |
27 |
Drainage Area |
4016 |
Nid Storage |
19000 |
Structural Height |
27 |
Outlet Gates |
Tainter (radial) - 10 |
Hazard Potential |
High |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
27 |
Wisconsin River At Rothschild
|
2280cfs |
Eau Claire River At Kelly
|
280cfs |
Rib River At Rib Falls
|
60cfs |
Wisconsin River At Merrill
|
1490cfs |
Big Eau Pleine River At Stratford
|
27cfs |
Prairie River Near Merrill
|
104cfs |