Iola

SOUTH BRANCH LITTLE WOLF· Waupaca, Wisconsin· Built 1865· Gravity· 12 ft tall
Significant Hazard Recreation Local Government

Key Takeaway

Iola is classified as significant hazard in Wisconsin. It was completed in 1865 and is 161 years old. Its primary use is recreation. Significant hazard means failure could cause economic or environmental damage. Learn more.

Physical Details

Dam Height 12 ft (taller than 30.4% in WI)
Dam Length694 ft
Dam TypeGravity
Max Storage1.0K acre-ft
Normal Storage638 acre-ft
Surface Area206 acres
Drainage Area100 sq mi
Max Discharge810 cfs
Year Completed1865 (161 years old)
NID IDWI00337

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 16, 2021
State Regulated: Yes
Regulatory Agency: WIDNR

Ownership

Village Of Iola

Local Government

Nearby Dams

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the hazard classification of Iola?

Iola 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 Iola?

Iola is owned by Village Of Iola (Local Government). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.

When was Iola built?

Iola was completed in 1865, making it 161 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 Iola?

Iola 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 Iola?

Iola has a dam height of 12 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 Iola last inspected?

Iola was last inspected on September 16, 2021. 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.