Located in Oconto Falls, Wisconsin, the Oconto Falls Lower dam stands as a testament to the area's rich history of hydroelectric power generation.
Wind
Humidity
Built in 1857, this rockfill dam spans 425 feet across the Oconto River, with a height of 22 feet and a storage capacity of 51 acre-feet. Despite its age, the dam's hazard potential is classified as low, with a moderate risk assessment rating of 3.
Owned and operated by a private entity, the Oconto Falls Lower dam is primarily used for hydroelectric purposes. With a maximum discharge of 5000 cubic feet per second and a spillway width of 186 feet, the dam has played a crucial role in harnessing the power of the river for over a century. Although the dam is not state regulated, it falls under the jurisdiction of the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission for permitting and enforcement purposes.
As an important part of the local landscape, the Oconto Falls Lower dam serves as a reminder of the region's reliance on water resources for energy production. With its historical significance and continued operational capacity, the dam represents a blend of past traditions and modern infrastructure in the ongoing quest for sustainable and renewable energy sources.
Year Completed |
1857 |
Dam Length |
425 |
Dam Height |
22 |
River Or Stream |
Oconto River |
Primary Dam Type |
Rockfill |
Surface Area |
9 |
Hydraulic Height |
22 |
Drainage Area |
759 |
Nid Storage |
51 |
Structural Height |
22 |
Outlet Gates |
Vertical Lift - 1 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Rock |
Nid Height |
22 |
Oconto River Near Gillett
|
596cfs |
Oconto River Near Oconto
|
375cfs |
Peshtigo River At Peshtigo
|
488cfs |
Duck Creek Near Howard
|
27cfs |
Fox River At Oil Tank Depot At Green Bay
|
6470cfs |
Peshtigo River At Porterfield
|
532cfs |