Whiting Mill Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 6, 2025

Whiting Mill Dam, located in Plover, Wisconsin, is a gravity dam completed in 1925 for hydroelectric and water supply purposes.


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Summary

Designed by Orbison & Orbison, the dam stands at a height of 24 feet and has a hydraulic height of 22 feet, with a storage capacity of 1,240 acre-feet. The dam spans 1,761 feet and has a spillway width of 400 feet, with a maximum discharge capacity of 106,500 cubic feet per second.

The dam is under the jurisdiction of the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission and is not state-regulated. It has a low hazard potential and a very high risk assessment rating. The emergency action plan for the dam was last revised in November 2019. The dam's condition assessment is currently not available, and it has not been inspected since July 2017.

Whiting Mill Dam plays a crucial role in harnessing hydroelectric power and providing water supply in the region. With its historical significance and structural integrity, the dam continues to be a key asset in managing water resources and contributing to the local economy and environment. Climate and water resource enthusiasts can appreciate the engineering marvel and the impact of Whiting Mill Dam on the surrounding landscape.

Year Completed

1925

Dam Length

1761

Dam Height

24

River Or Stream

Wisconsin River

Primary Dam Type

Gravity

Surface Area

240

Hydraulic Height

22

Drainage Area

4964

Nid Storage

1240

Outlet Gates

Tainter (radial) - 20

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Rock, Soil

Nid Height

24
       
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.