Stevens Point Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 6, 2025

Stevens Point, a private hydroelectric dam located in Portage County, Wisconsin, on the Wisconsin River, has been a key player in flood risk reduction, hydroelectric power generation, recreation, and water supply since its completion in 1916.


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Summary

Designed by L. A. De Guene and Grand Rapids Wisc, this gravity dam stands at a height of 26 feet and has a storage capacity of 27,000 acre-feet, serving a drainage area of 4,964 square miles.

With a spillway width of 2,450 feet and a maximum discharge of 140,000 cubic feet per second, Stevens Point dam plays a critical role in managing water flow in the region. Although its hazard potential is rated as high and the risk assessment as very high, the condition assessment is currently not available. Despite not being regulated by the state, the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission oversees its operations and inspections, ensuring the safety and efficiency of this vital water resource infrastructure.

As a significant landmark in the St. Paul District, Stevens Point dam continues to be a focal point for water resource and climate enthusiasts, offering a glimpse into the intersection of human engineering and natural forces in shaping the landscape. As concerns about climate change and water resource management grow, the role of structures like Stevens Point in mitigating risks and harnessing the power of water for various purposes becomes increasingly crucial.

Year Completed

1916

Dam Length

4770

Dam Height

26

River Or Stream

Wisconsin River

Primary Dam Type

Gravity

Surface Area

3915

Hydraulic Height

17.5

Drainage Area

4964

Nid Storage

27000

Structural Height

26

Outlet Gates

Tainter (radial) - 15

Hazard Potential

High

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

26
       
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.