Flambeau

Flambeau· Rusk, Wisconsin· Built 1951· Gravity· 92 ft tall

Key Takeaway

Flambeau is classified as high hazard in Wisconsin. It was completed in 1951 and is 75 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 92 ft (taller than 99.9% in WI)
Dam Length4,980 ft
Dam TypeGravity
Max Storage47.2K acre-ft
Normal Storage43.5K acre-ft
Surface Area1,952 acres
Drainage Area1,910 sq mi
Max Discharge81,000 cfs
Year Completed1951 (75 years old)
NID IDWI00794

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: June 8, 2022
State Regulated: No

Ownership

Dairyland Power Cooperative

Public Utility

Nearby Dams

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the hazard classification of Flambeau?

Flambeau 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 Flambeau?

Flambeau is owned by Dairyland Power Cooperative (Public Utility). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.

When was Flambeau built?

Flambeau was completed in 1951, making it 75 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 Flambeau?

Flambeau serves the following purposes: Hydroelectric, Fire Protection, Stock, Or Small Fish Pond, 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 Flambeau?

Flambeau has a dam height of 92 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 Flambeau last inspected?

Flambeau was last inspected on June 8, 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.