Dubay Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 6, 2025

Dubay, located in Portage, Wisconsin, is a privately-owned concrete dam on the Wisconsin River with a primary purpose of hydroelectric power generation.


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Summary

Completed in 1942, this impressive structure stands at a height of 40 feet and has a maximum storage capacity of 128,800 acre-feet, serving flood risk reduction and energy production needs. With a spillway width of 330 feet and a controlled spillway type, Dubay boasts a high hazard potential and a very high risk assessment rating.

Managed by the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission, Dubay is not state-regulated but has state permitting and enforcement in place. The dam's condition assessment is currently not available, but emergency action plans are in preparation to ensure public safety in case of any unforeseen events. Despite its age, Dubay continues to play a vital role in water resource management, with a drainage area of 4,822 square miles and a maximum discharge capacity of 150,000 cubic feet per second.

Water resource and climate enthusiasts will appreciate the engineering marvel that is Dubay, as it combines the functionality of flood risk reduction with sustainable hydroelectric power generation. The dam's association with the Wisconsin River and its pivotal location in Stevens Point make it a key player in the region's water management infrastructure. As efforts continue to assess and mitigate potential risks associated with the dam, Dubay stands as a testament to the importance of effective water resource management in Wisconsin.

Year Completed

1942

Dam Length

8630

Dam Height

40

River Or Stream

Wisconsin River

Primary Dam Type

Concrete

Surface Area

7800

Hydraulic Height

31

Drainage Area

4822

Nid Storage

128800

Structural Height

40

Outlet Gates

Tainter (radial) - 11

Hazard Potential

High

Foundations

Rock

Nid Height

40
       
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.