Burnt Rollways, located in Eagle River, Wisconsin, is a historic gravity dam completed in 1907 for hydroelectric purposes.
Wind
Humidity
Spanning 297 feet in length and standing at 16 feet tall, the dam holds a storage capacity of 103,879 acre-feet in the Eagle River. With a controlled spillway width of 47 feet and two Tainter gates for water release, the dam serves flood risk reduction and hydroelectric power generation in the region. Despite its age, Burnt Rollways is classified as having a low hazard potential and a very high risk assessment rating.
Owned and operated by a Public Utility, Burnt Rollways falls under the jurisdiction of the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission for regulation and oversight. While the dam is not currently state-regulated or inspected, it is subject to state permitting and enforcement as needed. The dam's condition assessment is listed as "Not Available," and the last inspection was conducted in June 2018, with a scheduled inspection frequency of 3 years. Additionally, an Emergency Action Plan (EAP) has been prepared and last revised in December 2019, indicating proactive measures in place for potential emergencies.
With its historical significance and vital role in water resource management and energy production, Burnt Rollways stands as a testament to early engineering ingenuity in Wisconsin. As water resource and climate enthusiasts, understanding the infrastructure and operation of dams like Burnt Rollways is crucial for appreciating their impact on local communities and the environment. As we continue to navigate the challenges of water resource management and climate change, dams like Burnt Rollways play a key role in ensuring water security and sustainable energy production for future generations.
Year Completed |
1907 |
Dam Length |
297 |
Dam Height |
16 |
River Or Stream |
Eagle River |
Primary Dam Type |
Gravity |
Drainage Area |
142 |
Nid Storage |
103879 |
Outlet Gates |
Tainter (radial) - 2 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
16 |