Biron Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 15, 2025
Located in Wisconsin Rapids, Wisconsin, Biron is a private hydroelectric dam on the Wisconsin River completed in 1937.
°F
°F
mph
Wind
%
Humidity
Summary
With a gravity dam type standing at 24 feet high and 18177 feet long, Biron serves multiple purposes including flood risk reduction, irrigation, recreation, and water supply. The dam has a high hazard potential and a very high risk assessment rating, making it a crucial structure for managing water resources in the area.
Managed by the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission, Biron has a normal storage capacity of 19500 acre-feet and a maximum discharge of 167000 cubic feet per second. The dam features a controlled spillway with a width of 568 feet and 22 Tainter (radial) outlet gates. Despite its age, the condition assessment of Biron is not available, indicating a need for further inspection and maintenance to ensure its continued operation and safety.
For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Biron offers a fascinating example of how hydroelectric infrastructure plays a vital role in managing water resources and providing various benefits to the surrounding community. As a key piece of water infrastructure in Wisconsin, Biron's significance lies in its ability to harness the power of the Wisconsin River for electricity generation while also serving important functions such as flood control and irrigation. Understanding the operation and maintenance of dams like Biron is essential for ensuring the sustainable management of water resources in the face of changing climate conditions.
Year Completed |
1937 |
Dam Length |
18177 |
Dam Height |
24 |
River Or Stream |
Wisconsin River |
Primary Dam Type |
Gravity |
Surface Area |
2078 |
Hydraulic Height |
24 |
Drainage Area |
5380 |
Nid Storage |
19600 |
Structural Height |
20 |
Outlet Gates |
Tainter (radial) - 22 |
Hazard Potential |
High |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
24 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Wisconsin River At Wisconsin Rapids
|
1610cfs |
Tenmile Creek Near Nekoosa
|
25cfs |
Yellow River At Babcock
|
44cfs |
Tomorrow River Near Nelsonville
|
24cfs |
Big Eau Pleine River At Stratford
|
27cfs |
Yellow River At Necedah
|
44cfs |
Dam Data Reference
Condition Assessment
SatisfactoryNo 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
HighDams 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.
Biron
Biron Flowage -- Access