Caldron Falls
Key Takeaway
Caldron Falls is classified as high hazard in Wisconsin. It was completed in 1924 and is 102 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 | 39 ft (taller than 91.9% in WI) |
| Dam Length | 1,250 ft |
| Dam Type | Gravity |
| Max Storage | 11.5K acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 11.5K acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 1,018 acres |
| Drainage Area | 496 sq mi |
| Max Discharge | 19,150 cfs |
| Year Completed | 1924 (102 years old) |
| NID ID | WI00759 |
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
Wisconsin Public Service Corporation
Public Utility
Nearby Dams
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Caldron Falls?
Caldron 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 Caldron Falls?
Caldron Falls is owned by Wisconsin Public Service Corporation (Public Utility). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Caldron Falls built?
Caldron Falls was completed in 1924, making it 102 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 Caldron Falls?
Caldron Falls serves the following purposes: Hydroelectric, Fish And Wildlife Pond, Recreation, Flood Risk Reduction. Many dams in the U.S. are multi-purpose, supporting flood control, water supply, recreation, and other uses.
How tall is Caldron Falls?
Caldron Falls has a dam height of 39 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 Caldron Falls last inspected?
Caldron Falls was last inspected on September 7, 2022. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.