Big Quinnesec Falls
Key Takeaway
Big Quinnesec Falls is classified as high hazard in Wisconsin. It was completed in 1948 and is 78 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 | 82 ft (taller than 99.7% in WI) |
| Dam Length | 640 ft |
| Dam Type | Gravity |
| Max Storage | 4.5K acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 3.4K acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 127 acres |
| Drainage Area | 2,579 sq mi |
| Max Discharge | 56,300 cfs |
| Year Completed | 1948 (78 years old) |
| NID ID | WI05002 |
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
WE ENERGIES
Private
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Low Hazard 8 ftFrequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Big Quinnesec Falls?
Big Quinnesec Falls 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 Big Quinnesec Falls?
Big Quinnesec Falls is owned by WE ENERGIES (Private). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Big Quinnesec Falls built?
Big Quinnesec Falls was completed in 1948, making it 78 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 Big Quinnesec Falls?
Big Quinnesec Falls 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 Big Quinnesec Falls?
Big Quinnesec Falls has a dam height of 82 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 Big Quinnesec Falls last inspected?
Big Quinnesec Falls was last inspected on February 2, 2016. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.