Pigeon Falls Mill Reservoir Report
Nearby: Johnson May Coulee
Last Updated: December 13, 2025
Pigeon Falls Mill, also known as Whitehall Mill and Power Co., is a gravity dam located in Pigeon Falls, Wisconsin, along the Pigeon Creek.
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Summary
Completed in 1930, the dam primarily serves a recreational purpose and is owned by the local government. With a height of 12.5 feet and a maximum storage capacity of 83 acre-feet, the dam covers a surface area of 20 acres and drains a 62 square mile area.
The dam's hazard potential is considered significant, with a condition assessment rating of fair as of May 2020. Despite being in operation for nearly a century, the dam has undergone modifications in 1999 and is subject to regular inspections every three years. The risk assessment for Pigeon Falls Mill is rated as very high, reflecting the potential consequences of failure. The dam is regulated by the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources and is part of the Detroit District's jurisdiction.
Water resource and climate enthusiasts will find Pigeon Falls Mill to be a fascinating structure, both in terms of its historical significance and its role in providing recreational opportunities in the Trempealeau County area. As a gravity dam with controlled spillways, the dam's impact on the surrounding environment and its ability to manage water flow in the Pigeon Creek watershed make it a noteworthy site for further study and appreciation. Despite its age, the dam continues to be actively monitored and maintained to ensure its safety and functionality for future generations.
Years Modified |
1999 - Other |
Year Completed |
1930 |
Dam Height |
12.5 |
River Or Stream |
PIGEON CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Gravity |
Surface Area |
20 |
Hydraulic Height |
11.7 |
Drainage Area |
62 |
Nid Storage |
83 |
Structural Height |
12.5 |
Hazard Potential |
Significant |
Nid Height |
13 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Trempealeau River At Arcadia
|
400cfs |
Black River Ds St Hwy 54 @ Black River Falls
|
256cfs |
Black River Near Galesville
|
862cfs |
Trempealeau River At Dodge
|
953cfs |
Black River At Neillsville
|
193cfs |
Mississippi River At Winona
|
17200cfs |
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.
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