High Falls Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 8, 2025

High Falls, located in Marinette, Wisconsin, is a captivating hydroelectric dam on the Peshtigo River designed by Daniel W.


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Summary

Mead and completed in 1910. With a gravity dam type and a height of 47 feet, High Falls stands at the forefront of water resource management and climate sustainability efforts. The dam serves the primary purpose of hydroelectric power generation while also offering recreational opportunities for visitors to enjoy the surrounding area.

High Falls boasts a significant storage capacity of 16,000 acre-feet and a maximum discharge of 21,000 cubic feet per second, making it a crucial asset for water management in the region. Despite its high hazard potential, the dam is not currently state-regulated but falls under the jurisdiction of the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission. With its multi-arch core type and rock foundation, High Falls stands as a testament to engineering excellence and environmental stewardship in harnessing the power of water for both energy production and recreation.

The dam's impressive features, including a structural height of 38 feet and a hydraulic height of 83 feet, highlight its importance in regulating water flow and supporting the surrounding ecosystem. As a key player in the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission's oversight, High Falls plays a crucial role in ensuring the safety and efficiency of hydroelectric operations in the area. From its Tainter radial gates to its expansive surface area of 1,670 acres, High Falls stands as a symbol of sustainable water resource management and climate resilience in the face of evolving environmental challenges.

Year Completed

1910

Dam Length

4903

Dam Height

47

River Or Stream

Peshtigo River

Primary Dam Type

Gravity

Surface Area

1670

Hydraulic Height

83

Drainage Area

537

Nid Storage

16000

Structural Height

38

Outlet Gates

Tainter (radial) - 6

Hazard Potential

High

Foundations

Rock

Nid Height

83
       
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.