Fishtrap
Key Takeaway
Fishtrap is classified as high hazard in Wisconsin. It was completed in 1884 and is 142 years old. Its primary use is recreation. 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 | 14 ft (taller than 40.1% in WI) |
| Dam Length | 205 ft |
| Dam Type | Rockfill |
| Max Storage | 14.5K acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 7.0K acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 339 acres |
| Drainage Area | 59 sq mi |
| Max Discharge | 1,412 cfs |
| Year Completed | 1884 (142 years old) |
| NID ID | WI00680 |
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 Department of Natural Resources
State Government
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Fishtrap?
Fishtrap 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 Fishtrap?
Fishtrap is owned by Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources (State Government). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Fishtrap built?
Fishtrap was completed in 1884, making it 142 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 Fishtrap?
Fishtrap serves the following purposes: Recreation. Many dams in the U.S. are multi-purpose, supporting flood control, water supply, recreation, and other uses.
How tall is Fishtrap?
Fishtrap has a dam height of 14 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 Fishtrap last inspected?
Fishtrap was last inspected on September 6, 2022. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.