Apple River

Apple River· St. Croix, Wisconsin· Built 1954· Masonry· 47 ft tall
High Hazard Hydroelectric Recreation Public Utility

Key Takeaway

Apple River is classified as high hazard in Wisconsin. It was completed in 1954 and is 72 years old. Its primary use is hydroelectric. High hazard means loss of life is likely if the dam fails — it does not indicate the dam's current condition. Learn more.

Physical Details

Dam Height 47 ft (taller than 97% in WI)
Dam TypeMasonry
Max Storage668 acre-ft
Normal Storage668 acre-ft
Surface Area52 acres
Drainage Area555 sq mi
Max Discharge9,000 cfs
Year Completed1954 (72 years old)
NID IDWI00027

Safety Information

High Hazard

Loss of human life is likely if the dam fails.

Hazard potential describes downstream consequences of failure, not the dam's current condition. What does this mean?

Emergency Action Plan: Yes
Last Inspection: May 24, 2022
State Regulated: No

Ownership

Northern States Power Co

Public Utility

Nearby Dams

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the hazard classification of Apple River?

Apple River is classified as High Hazard. Loss of human life is likely if the dam fails. This classification refers to the potential downstream consequences of a failure, not the dam's current structural condition.

Who owns and operates Apple River?

Apple River is owned by Northern States Power Co (Public Utility). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.

When was Apple River built?

Apple River was completed in 1954, making it 72 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 Apple River?

Apple River serves the following purposes: Hydroelectric, Recreation. Many dams in the U.S. are multi-purpose, supporting flood control, water supply, recreation, and other uses.

How tall is Apple River?

Apple River has a dam height of 47 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 Apple River last inspected?

Apple River was last inspected on May 24, 2022. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.

Data from the National Inventory of Dams (NID) maintained by the US Army Corps of Engineers. Dam conditions may have changed since the last update. This site is not affiliated with USACE. Do not use for emergency planning — contact your local dam safety program.