Junction Falls

Kinnickinnic River· Pierce, Wisconsin· Built 1920· Gravity· 32 ft tall
Significant Hazard Hydroelectric Local Government

Key Takeaway

Junction Falls is classified as significant hazard in Wisconsin. It was completed in 1920 and is 106 years old. Its primary use is hydroelectric. Significant hazard means failure could cause economic or environmental damage. Learn more.

Physical Details

Dam Height 32 ft (taller than 84.9% in WI)
Dam Length144 ft
Dam TypeGravity
Max Storage142 acre-ft
Normal Storage142 acre-ft
Surface Area16 acres
Drainage Area100 sq mi
Max Discharge11,160 cfs
Year Completed1920 (106 years old)
NID IDWI00021

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: June 29, 2022
State Regulated: No

Ownership

River Falls, City of

Local Government

Nearby Dams

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the hazard classification of Junction Falls?

Junction Falls 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 Junction Falls?

Junction Falls is owned by River Falls, City of (Local Government). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.

When was Junction Falls built?

Junction Falls was completed in 1920, making it 106 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 Junction Falls?

Junction Falls serves the following purposes: Hydroelectric. Many dams in the U.S. are multi-purpose, supporting flood control, water supply, recreation, and other uses.

How tall is Junction Falls?

Junction 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 Junction Falls last inspected?

Junction Falls was last inspected on June 29, 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.