Port Edwards Reservoir Report
Nearby: Four Mile Creek Centralia
Last Updated: December 15, 2025
Port Edwards is a privately owned hydroelectric dam located on the Wisconsin River in Wood County, Wisconsin.
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Summary
Completed in 1855, this gravity dam stands at 22 feet tall and has a hydraulic height of 16.4 feet, providing a maximum discharge of 38,380 cubic feet per second. With a storage capacity of 1,300 acre-feet, the dam serves primarily for hydroelectric power generation and recreation purposes, making it a crucial part of the local water resource infrastructure.
Managed by the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission, Port Edwards Dam has a controlled spillway with a width of 715 feet and is classified as having a low hazard potential. The dam is equipped with five Tainter radial gates for water control. Despite its age, the dam's risk assessment ranks as very high (1), highlighting the importance of regular inspections and maintenance to ensure its continued safe operation. The surrounding area boasts a surface area of 150 acres and a drainage area of 5,430 square miles, accentuating the dam's significance in managing water resources and mitigating flood risks in the region.
Overall, Port Edwards Dam stands as a historic landmark in Wisconsin's water resource infrastructure, providing not only clean energy but also recreational opportunities for the local community. With its rich history dating back to the mid-19th century, the dam continues to play a crucial role in water management and climate resilience efforts along the Wisconsin River, showcasing the intersection of engineering ingenuity and environmental stewardship in sustaining vital water resources for future generations.
Year Completed |
1855 |
Dam Length |
1215 |
Dam Height |
22 |
River Or Stream |
Wisconsin River |
Primary Dam Type |
Gravity |
Surface Area |
150 |
Hydraulic Height |
16.4 |
Drainage Area |
5430 |
Nid Storage |
1300 |
Structural Height |
22 |
Outlet Gates |
Tainter (radial) - 5 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
22 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Wisconsin River At Wisconsin Rapids
|
1610cfs |
Tenmile Creek Near Nekoosa
|
25cfs |
Yellow River At Babcock
|
44cfs |
Yellow River At Necedah
|
44cfs |
Tomorrow River Near Nelsonville
|
24cfs |
Big Eau Pleine River At Stratford
|
27cfs |
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.
Port Edwards
Nepco Lake -- Access Off County Hwy Z