Biron
Key Takeaway
Biron is classified as high hazard in Wisconsin. It was completed in 1937 and is 89 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 | 24 ft (taller than 69.1% in WI) |
| Dam Length | 18,177 ft |
| Dam Type | Gravity |
| Max Storage | 19.6K acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 19.5K acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 2,078 acres |
| Drainage Area | 5,380 sq mi |
| Max Discharge | 167,000 cfs |
| Year Completed | 1937 (89 years old) |
| NID ID | WI00815 |
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
Consolidated Water Power Company
Private
Nearby Dams
Wisconsin Rapids
Wood, WI
Low Hazard 34 ftSouth Wood County Park
Wood, WI
High Hazard 26 ftCentralia
Wood, WI
Low Hazard 30 ftPort Edwards
Wood, WI
Low Hazard 22 ftFour Mile Creek
Wood, WI
Low Hazard 33 ftNekoosa
Wood, WI
Low Hazard 32 ftWood County 3
Wood, WI
Low Hazard 9 ftVesper
Wood, WI
Significant Hazard 13 ftFrequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Biron?
Biron 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 Biron?
Biron is owned by Consolidated Water Power Company (Private). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Biron built?
Biron was completed in 1937, making it 89 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 Biron?
Biron serves the following purposes: Hydroelectric, Other, Irrigation, Recreation, Water Supply, Flood Risk Reduction. Many dams in the U.S. are multi-purpose, supporting flood control, water supply, recreation, and other uses.
How tall is Biron?
Biron has a dam height of 24 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 Biron last inspected?
Biron was last inspected on September 1, 2022. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.