Grandfather Falls
Key Takeaway
Grandfather Falls is classified as high hazard in Wisconsin. It was completed in 1906 and is 120 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 | 32 ft (taller than 84.9% in WI) |
| Dam Length | 700 ft |
| Dam Type | Gravity |
| Max Storage | 2.5K acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 2.5K acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 200 acres |
| Drainage Area | 2,293 sq mi |
| Max Discharge | 59,830 cfs |
| Year Completed | 1906 (120 years old) |
| NID ID | WI00743 |
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
Camp Birch Trails
Lincoln, WI
Low Hazard 17 ftGrandmother
Lincoln, WI
High Hazard 39 ftCarl
Lincoln, WI
Low Hazard 11 ftJune Lake
Lincoln, WI
Low Hazard 9 ftAlexander
Lincoln, WI
High Hazard 38 ftSpirit
Lincoln, WI
High Hazard 26 ftTomahawk
Lincoln, WI
High Hazard 27 ftNew Wood
Lincoln, WI
Low Hazard 7 ftFrequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Grandfather Falls?
Grandfather 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 Grandfather Falls?
Grandfather 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 Grandfather Falls built?
Grandfather Falls was completed in 1906, making it 120 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 Grandfather Falls?
Grandfather Falls 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 Grandfather Falls?
Grandfather Falls has a dam height of 32 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 Grandfather Falls last inspected?
Grandfather Falls was last inspected on July 20, 2022. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.