The Wire and Nail Factory, also known as K.M.
Wind
Humidity
Company, is a private hydroelectric facility located in Cedarburg, Wisconsin along the Cedar Creek. Built in 1934, this arch dam stands at 28 feet tall and has a length of 83 feet, with a storage capacity of 27 acre-feet. The facility is regulated by the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources (WIDNR) and is designed for hydroelectric purposes, with a low hazard potential but in poor condition as of the last assessment in 2017.
Despite its age, the Wire and Nail Factory continues to play a significant role in the region's water resource management, providing a source of renewable energy and supporting the local ecosystem. With a drainage area of 125 square miles and a maximum discharge of 2350 cubic feet per second, the facility has a notable impact on the surrounding environment. However, its poor condition raises concerns about its long-term sustainability and the need for potential rehabilitation efforts in the future.
As climate change continues to pose challenges to water resource management, facilities like the Wire and Nail Factory are crucial for harnessing clean energy and adapting to changing environmental conditions. It is important for stakeholders to prioritize the maintenance and modernization of such infrastructure to ensure the continued resilience and efficiency of our water resources in the face of a rapidly changing climate.
Year Completed |
1934 |
Dam Length |
83 |
Dam Height |
28 |
River Or Stream |
CEDAR CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Arch |
Surface Area |
2 |
Hydraulic Height |
20 |
Drainage Area |
125 |
Nid Storage |
27 |
Structural Height |
28 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Rock |
Nid Height |
28 |