Amherst
Key Takeaway
Amherst is classified as significant hazard in Wisconsin. It was completed in 1857 and is 169 years old. Its primary use is recreation. Significant hazard means failure could cause economic or environmental damage. Learn more.
Physical Details
| Dam Height | 14 ft (taller than 40.1% in WI) |
| Dam Length | 370 ft |
| Dam Type | Gravity |
| Max Storage | 260 acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 116 acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 48 acres |
| Drainage Area | 90 sq mi |
| Max Discharge | 1,960 cfs |
| Year Completed | 1857 (169 years old) |
| NID ID | WI00286 |
Safety Information
No probable loss of human life, but can cause economic loss, environmental damage, or disruption of lifeline facilities.
Hazard potential describes downstream consequences of failure, not the dam's current condition. What does this mean?
Ownership
Renew Hydro Power, LLC;Village of Amherst
Local Government
Nearby Dams
Spring Creek
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Low Hazard 13 ftHartman Creek Number Five
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Low Hazard 14 ftFountain Lake
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Low Hazard 8 ftHartman Creek Number One
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Low Hazard 11 ftIola
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Significant Hazard 12 ftLighting Plant
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Low Hazard 25 ftFrequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Amherst?
Amherst is classified as Significant Hazard. No probable loss of human life, but can cause economic loss, environmental damage, or disruption of lifeline facilities. This classification refers to the potential downstream consequences of a failure, not the dam's current structural condition.
Who owns and operates Amherst?
Amherst is owned by Renew Hydro Power, LLC;Village of Amherst (Local Government). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Amherst built?
Amherst was completed in 1857, making it 169 years old. Many U.S. dams were built between the 1930s and 1970s during a period of major infrastructure investment.
What is the primary purpose of Amherst?
Amherst serves the following purposes: Recreation, Hydroelectric. Many dams in the U.S. are multi-purpose, supporting flood control, water supply, recreation, and other uses.
How tall is Amherst?
Amherst has a dam height of 14 ft. Dam height is measured from the natural streambed at the downstream toe to the top of the dam, and may differ from the visible height.
When was Amherst last inspected?
Amherst was last inspected on August 7, 2019. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.