Chippewa Reservoir Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Chippewa Reservoir, also known as Winter, is a stunning water resource located in Sawyer, Wisconsin, along the Chippewa River.


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Summary

This reservoir, completed in 1923, primarily serves as a hydroelectric power source and offers recreational opportunities. With a dam height of 45 feet and a storage capacity of 230,000 acre-feet, Chippewa Reservoir covers a surface area of 15,800 acres and has a maximum discharge of 40,000 cubic feet per second.

Managed by the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission, Chippewa Reservoir boasts a controlled spillway with a width of 78 feet and two Tainter radial gates for water regulation. Despite its high hazard potential, the reservoir is a vital resource for the region, providing both electricity and recreational enjoyment. The risk assessment for Chippewa Reservoir indicates a very high risk level, underscoring the importance of ongoing monitoring and management measures to ensure its safety and sustainability for future generations.

As a key player in water resource management, Chippewa Reservoir stands as a testament to the intersection of human ingenuity and environmental stewardship. With its historic significance and vital role in providing clean energy and recreational opportunities, this reservoir exemplifies the delicate balance between harnessing natural resources and protecting ecological integrity. By understanding and addressing the risks associated with its operation, Chippewa Reservoir continues to be a valuable asset for the community and a symbol of resilience in the face of climate challenges.

Year Completed

1923

Dam Length

1290

Dam Height

45

River Or Stream

Chippewa River

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

15800

Drainage Area

787

Nid Storage

230000

Outlet Gates

Tainter (radial) - 2

Hazard Potential

High

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

45
       
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.