Bad Axe 11
Key Takeaway
Bad Axe 11 is classified as high hazard in Wisconsin. It was completed in 1978 and is 48 years old. Its primary use is recreation. 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 | 26 ft (taller than 73.4% in WI) |
| Dam Length | 5,055 ft |
| Dam Type | Gravity |
| Max Storage | 9.0K acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 3.2K acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 280 acres |
| Drainage Area | 12 sq mi |
| Max Discharge | 220 cfs |
| Year Completed | 1978 (48 years old) |
| NID ID | WI12767 |
Safety Information
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?
Ownership
Vernon County
Local Government
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Low Hazard 44 ftFrequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Bad Axe 11?
Bad Axe 11 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 Bad Axe 11?
Bad Axe 11 is owned by Vernon County (Local Government). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Bad Axe 11 built?
Bad Axe 11 was completed in 1978, making it 48 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 Bad Axe 11?
Bad Axe 11 serves the following purposes: Recreation, Other. Many dams in the U.S. are multi-purpose, supporting flood control, water supply, recreation, and other uses.
How tall is Bad Axe 11?
Bad Axe 11 has a dam height of 26 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 Bad Axe 11 last inspected?
Bad Axe 11 was last inspected on March 9, 2021. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.