Ladysmith Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Located in Ladysmith, Wisconsin, the Ladysmith Hydroelectric Dam is a historic structure completed in 1908 with a primary purpose of hydroelectric power generation.


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Summary

This gravity dam stands at a height of 28 feet and spans 570 feet along the Flambeau River. With a storage capacity of 3,350 acre-feet and a normal storage level of 2,200 acre-feet, the dam plays a crucial role in water resource management in the region.

Managed by the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission, the Ladysmith Dam features a controlled spillway with a width of 173 feet and ten Tainter radial gates for water release. The dam is deemed to have low hazard potential and has a very high risk assessment rating. While the condition assessment is not available, the dam undergoes inspections every three years to ensure its safety and functionality. With its rich history and important role in hydroelectric power generation, Ladysmith Dam is a significant landmark for water resource and climate enthusiasts to explore and study.

Year Completed

1908

Dam Length

570

Dam Height

28

River Or Stream

Flambeau

Primary Dam Type

Gravity

Drainage Area

1940

Nid Storage

3350

Outlet Gates

Tainter (radial) - 10

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Rock, Soil

Nid Height

28
       
Seasonal Comparison

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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.