Crowley Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 6, 2025

Crowley, a privately owned hydroelectric dam located in Ladysmith, Wisconsin, has been a key player in harnessing the power of the North Fork Flambeau river since its completion in 1930.


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Summary

Standing at a height of 23 feet and with a maximum storage capacity of 3540 acre-feet, this gravity-type dam plays a crucial role in generating clean energy for the region. With a drainage area of 820 square miles and a maximum discharge capacity of 16,250 cubic feet per second, Crowley has proven to be a reliable source of renewable energy for decades.

Despite its age, Crowley remains a high-hazard structure with a very high risk assessment rating, highlighting the importance of regular inspections and maintenance. Managed by the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission, the dam features a controlled spillway with a width of 71 feet and two Tainter radial gates for water release. The surrounding area, with a surface area of 422 acres, is at risk of inundation in case of an emergency, emphasizing the need for a robust emergency action plan to mitigate potential risks.

Crowley continues to be a vital component of the local water resource infrastructure, serving as a prime example of sustainable energy generation through hydropower. With its historical significance and environmental impact, the dam stands as a testament to the intersection of water resource management, climate resilience, and renewable energy production in the modern era.

Year Completed

1930

Dam Length

513

Dam Height

23

River Or Stream

North Fork Flambeau

Primary Dam Type

Gravity

Surface Area

422

Hydraulic Height

20.6

Drainage Area

820

Nid Storage

3540

Outlet Gates

Tainter (radial) - 2

Hazard Potential

High

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

23
       
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.