Kaukauna
Key Takeaway
Kaukauna is classified as high hazard in Wisconsin. It was completed in 1940 and is 86 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 | 9 ft (taller than 12% in WI) |
| Dam Length | 2,860 ft |
| Dam Type | Gravity |
| Max Storage | 500 acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 500 acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 19 acres |
| Drainage Area | 5,980 sq mi |
| Max Discharge | 24,000 cfs |
| Year Completed | 1940 (86 years old) |
| NID ID | WI00778 |
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
Kaukauna, City of
Local Government
Nearby Dams
Kaukauna Locks and Dam
Outagamie, WI
Significant HazardCombined Locks
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Significant Hazard 23 ftLittle Chute Locks and Dam
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Significant HazardRapide Croche Lock and Dam
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Significant HazardCedars Lock and Dam
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High HazardApple Creek Dam #2
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Low Hazard 11 ftKensington Pond
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High Hazard 14 ftLower Appleton Locks and Dam
Outagamie, WI
Significant HazardFrequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Kaukauna?
Kaukauna 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 Kaukauna?
Kaukauna is owned by Kaukauna, City of (Local Government). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Kaukauna built?
Kaukauna was completed in 1940, making it 86 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 Kaukauna?
Kaukauna serves the following purposes: Hydroelectric, Navigation, Flood Risk Reduction. Many dams in the U.S. are multi-purpose, supporting flood control, water supply, recreation, and other uses.
How tall is Kaukauna?
Kaukauna has a dam height of 9 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 Kaukauna last inspected?
Kaukauna was last inspected on September 12, 2022. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.