Chalk Hills

MENOMINEE· Menominee, Wisconsin· Built 1927· Gravity· 43 ft tall
High Hazard Hydroelectric Recreation Private

Key Takeaway

Chalk Hills is classified as high hazard in Wisconsin. It was completed in 1927 and is 99 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 43 ft (taller than 94.9% in WI)
Dam Length900 ft
Dam TypeGravity
Max Storage13.1K acre-ft
Normal Storage7.7K acre-ft
Surface Area766 acres
Drainage Area3,321 sq mi
Max Discharge67,500 cfs
Year Completed1927 (99 years old)
NID IDWI05010

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: February 3, 2015
State Regulated: No

Ownership

WE ENERGIES

Private

Nearby Dams

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the hazard classification of Chalk Hills?

Chalk Hills 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 Chalk Hills?

Chalk Hills is owned by WE ENERGIES (Private). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.

When was Chalk Hills built?

Chalk Hills was completed in 1927, making it 99 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 Chalk Hills?

Chalk Hills 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 Chalk Hills?

Chalk Hills has a dam height of 43 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 Chalk Hills last inspected?

Chalk Hills was last inspected on February 3, 2015. 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.