Weyauwega Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 6, 2025

Located in Waupaca, Wisconsin, Weyauwega is a hydroelectric dam on the Waupaca River constructed in 1852 by O'Keefe & Orbison.


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Summary

The dam stands at 29.5 feet tall with a hydraulic height of 14 feet and a length of 240 feet. With a normal storage capacity of 1259 acre-feet and a drainage area of 310 square miles, Weyauwega plays a crucial role in water resource management and hydroelectric power generation in the region.

Managed by the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission, Weyauwega serves primarily for hydroelectric purposes but also offers recreational opportunities. The dam features a controlled spillway with a width of 36 feet and three Tainter (radial) outlet gates. While the hazard potential is classified as low, the risk assessment indicates a very high risk level, emphasizing the importance of ongoing monitoring and maintenance. With its historical significance and environmental impact, Weyauwega stands as a cornerstone in the intersection of water resource management and climate resilience efforts in the area.

As a key structure in the water infrastructure network, Weyauwega contributes to the sustainable utilization of water resources and renewable energy production. The dam's location in the Waupaca River watershed underscores its role in regulating water flow, supporting wildlife habitats, and providing recreational opportunities for the local community. With its rich history and ongoing operational significance, Weyauwega serves as a focal point for water resource and climate enthusiasts seeking to understand the interconnectedness of human activities and environmental systems in the region.

Year Completed

1852

Dam Length

240

Dam Height

16

River Or Stream

Waupaca River

Surface Area

250

Hydraulic Height

14

Drainage Area

310

Nid Storage

1259

Structural Height

29.5

Outlet Gates

Tainter (radial) - 3

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

30
       
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.