Combined Locks

Fox River· Outagamie, Wisconsin· Built 1912· Gravity· 23 ft tall
Significant Hazard Hydroelectric Flood Risk Reduction Local Government

Key Takeaway

Combined Locks is classified as significant hazard in Wisconsin. It was completed in 1912 and is 114 years old. Its primary use is hydroelectric. Significant hazard means failure could cause economic or environmental damage. Learn more.

Physical Details

Dam Height 23 ft (taller than 67% in WI)
Dam Length653 ft
Dam TypeGravity
Max Storage1.7K acre-ft
Normal Storage1.6K acre-ft
Surface Area180 acres
Drainage Area6,000 sq mi
Max Discharge20,800 cfs
Year Completed1912 (114 years old)
NID IDWI00777

Safety Information

Significant Hazard

No probable loss of human life, but can cause economic loss, environmental damage, or disruption of lifeline facilities.

Hazard potential describes downstream consequences of failure, not the dam's current condition. What does this mean?

Emergency Action Plan: Yes
Last Inspection: September 13, 2022
State Regulated: No

Ownership

Kaukauna, City of

Local Government

Nearby Dams

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the hazard classification of Combined Locks?

Combined Locks is classified as Significant Hazard. No probable loss of human life, but can cause economic loss, environmental damage, or disruption of lifeline facilities. This classification refers to the potential downstream consequences of a failure, not the dam's current structural condition.

Who owns and operates Combined Locks?

Combined Locks is owned by Kaukauna, City of (Local Government). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.

When was Combined Locks built?

Combined Locks was completed in 1912, making it 114 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 Combined Locks?

Combined Locks serves the following purposes: Hydroelectric, Flood Risk Reduction. Many dams in the U.S. are multi-purpose, supporting flood control, water supply, recreation, and other uses.

How tall is Combined Locks?

Combined Locks has a dam height of 23 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 Combined Locks last inspected?

Combined Locks was last inspected on September 13, 2022. 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.