Hartford, a local government-owned dam located in Washington, Wisconsin, serves as a vital recreational resource along the Rubicon River. Built in 1844, this Gravity dam stands at a height of 13.7 meters and has a length of 290 meters, providing a storage capacity of 50 acre-feet. The dam's primary purpose is for recreation, offering a surface area of 11 acres for water activities.

Despite its age, Hartford dam has a low hazard potential and is currently in fair condition, last assessed in May 2020. The dam has a controlled spillway type and a maximum discharge capacity of 575 cubic feet per second. While the risk assessment indicates a very high risk level, it is assigned a risk rating of 1, suggesting effective risk management measures in place. With state regulation, permitting, inspection, and enforcement, Hartford dam is maintained to ensure public safety and continued recreational use.

Hartford dam's historical significance, combined with its role in water resource management and climate resilience, highlights the importance of preserving this iconic structure. As climate change impacts water systems, ensuring the safety and functionality of dams like Hartford becomes crucial in safeguarding communities and ecosystems. Through ongoing monitoring, maintenance, and risk management efforts, Hartford dam continues to provide recreational opportunities while upholding its role in water resource management for the region.