Wisconsin Rapids Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 13, 2025

Wisconsin Rapids, located along the Wisconsin River in Wood County, Wisconsin, is home to a gravity dam constructed in 1843 primarily for hydroelectric power generation.


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Summary

The dam, with a height of 34 feet and a length of 6040 feet, serves multiple purposes including flood risk reduction, irrigation, recreation, and water supply for the region. With a storage capacity of 4660 acre-feet and a maximum discharge of 130,000 cubic feet per second, the dam plays a crucial role in managing water resources in the area.

Owned and operated by a private entity, the dam falls under the jurisdiction of the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC) and has a low hazard potential. Despite its age, the dam is continuously inspected with an inspection frequency of three years. The emergency action plan (EAP) for the dam was last revised in 2019, ensuring that proper risk management measures are in place to address any potential hazards. The dam's location and design make it a key infrastructure for water resource management and climate resilience efforts in the region.

In conclusion, Wisconsin Rapids' gravity dam stands as a historic yet vital piece of infrastructure along the Wisconsin River, contributing to the region's water supply, flood control, and energy production needs. As water resource and climate enthusiasts, it is essential to recognize the importance of maintaining and monitoring such structures to ensure their continued safety and efficiency in the face of evolving environmental challenges.

Year Completed

1843

Dam Length

6040

Dam Height

34

River Or Stream

Wisconsin River

Primary Dam Type

Gravity

Surface Area

455

Hydraulic Height

30

Drainage Area

5420

Nid Storage

4660

Outlet Gates

Tainter (radial) - 19

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

34
       
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.