Lower Balsam Lake
Key Takeaway
Lower Balsam Lake is classified as significant hazard in Wisconsin. It was completed in 1860 and is 166 years old. Its primary use is hydroelectric. Significant hazard means failure could cause economic or environmental damage. Learn more.
Physical Details
| Dam Height | 38 ft (taller than 91.1% in WI) |
| Dam Length | 220 ft |
| Dam Type | Gravity |
| Max Storage | 22.3K acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 12.0K acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 2,054 acres |
| Drainage Area | 24 sq mi |
| Max Discharge | 600 cfs |
| Year Completed | 1860 (166 years old) |
| NID ID | WI00024 |
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
Village Of Balsam Lake
Local Government
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What is the hazard classification of Lower Balsam Lake?
Lower Balsam Lake 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 Balsam Lake?
Lower Balsam Lake is owned by Village Of Balsam Lake (Local Government). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Lower Balsam Lake built?
Lower Balsam Lake was completed in 1860, making it 166 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 Balsam Lake?
Lower Balsam Lake 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 Lower Balsam Lake?
Lower Balsam Lake has a dam height of 38 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 Lower Balsam Lake last inspected?
Lower Balsam Lake was last inspected on July 15, 2015. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.