Lower Appleton Locks and Dam
Key Takeaway
Lower Appleton Locks and Dam is classified as significant hazard in Wisconsin. It was completed in 1934 and is 92 years old. Its primary use is flood risk reduction. Significant hazard means failure could cause economic or environmental damage. Learn more.
Physical Details
| Dam Length | 549 ft |
| Dam Type | Concrete |
| Max Storage | 300 acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 200 acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 5,822 acres |
| Drainage Area | 6,070 sq mi |
| Max Discharge | 17,000 cfs |
| Year Completed | 1934 (92 years old) |
| NID ID | WI00850 |
Safety Information
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?
Ownership
USACE - Chicago District;Wisconsin DNR
Federal Government
Nearby Dams
Middle Appleton
Outagamie, WI
Low Hazard 11 ftUpper Appleton Locks and Dam
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Significant HazardKensington Pond
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High Hazard 14 ftCedars Lock and Dam
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High HazardLittle Chute Locks and Dam
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Significant HazardApple Creek Dam #2
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Low Hazard 11 ftMenasha Lock and Dam
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High HazardCombined Locks
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Significant Hazard 23 ftFrequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Lower Appleton Locks and Dam?
Lower Appleton Locks and Dam 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 Lower Appleton Locks and Dam?
Lower Appleton Locks and Dam is owned by USACE - Chicago District;Wisconsin DNR (Federal Government). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Lower Appleton Locks and Dam built?
Lower Appleton Locks and Dam was completed in 1934, making it 92 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 Lower Appleton Locks and Dam?
Lower Appleton Locks and Dam serves the following purposes: Flood Risk Reduction, Navigation, Recreation. Many dams in the U.S. are multi-purpose, supporting flood control, water supply, recreation, and other uses.
When was Lower Appleton Locks and Dam last inspected?
Lower Appleton Locks and Dam was last inspected on May 14, 2019. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.