Lower Kaukauna, located in Outagamie, Wisconsin, is a hydroelectric dam on the Fox River with a rich history dating back to its completion in 1857.
Wind
Humidity
With a primary purpose of hydroelectric power generation, the dam also serves navigation and recreation purposes. The dam stands at 16 feet high with a hydraulic height of 9 feet and a length of 3050 feet, creating a storage capacity of 200 acre-feet and a maximum discharge of 51,400 cubic feet per second.
Despite its age, Lower Kaukauna poses a high hazard potential due to its condition assessment being listed as "Not Rated." The risk assessment for the dam is classified as "Very High (1)," emphasizing the importance of proper maintenance and risk management measures. While it is not under the jurisdiction of the state for inspection, the dam is permitted by the state and regulated for enforcement, indicating the need for continued vigilance in ensuring its safety and functionality for both water resource management and climate adaptation efforts in the region.
Lower Kaukauna's location and design make it a significant landmark on the Fox River, providing both environmental benefits and challenges for the surrounding ecosystem. As water resource and climate enthusiasts, it is essential to monitor and address the risks associated with aging infrastructure like Lower Kaukauna to ensure the continued sustainability of water resources and the protection of communities downstream.
Years Modified |
1940 - Other |
Year Completed |
1857 |
Dam Length |
3050 |
Dam Height |
16 |
River Or Stream |
FOX |
Primary Dam Type |
Gravity |
Surface Area |
40 |
Length Of Locks |
144 |
Hydraulic Height |
9 |
Drainage Area |
6229 |
Nid Storage |
200 |
Structural Height |
16 |
Hazard Potential |
High |
Nid Height |
16 |
Fox River At Appleton
|
3320cfs |
East River At Ct Highway Zz Near Greenleaf
|
1cfs |
Duck Creek Near Howard
|
27cfs |
Fox River At Oil Tank Depot At Green Bay
|
6470cfs |
Fox River At Oshkosh
|
1260cfs |
Wolf River At New London
|
1050cfs |