Lower Watertown Dam
Key Takeaway
Lower Watertown Dam is classified as low hazard in Wisconsin. It was completed in 1904 and is 122 years old. Its primary use is hydroelectric.
Physical Details
| Dam Height | 11 ft (taller than 24.3% in WI) |
| Dam Length | 225 ft |
| Dam Type | Gravity |
| Max Storage | 2.3K acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 250 acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 130 acres |
| Drainage Area | 971 sq mi |
| Max Discharge | 1,200 cfs |
| Year Completed | 1904 (122 years old) |
| NID ID | WI00141 |
Safety Information
No probable loss of human life and low economic/environmental losses expected.
Hazard potential describes downstream consequences of failure, not the dam's current condition. What does this mean?
Ownership
Rock River Power and Light Corporation
Private
Nearby Dams
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Lower Watertown Dam?
Lower Watertown Dam is classified as Low Hazard. No probable loss of human life and low economic/environmental losses expected. This classification refers to the potential downstream consequences of a failure, not the dam's current structural condition.
Who owns and operates Lower Watertown Dam?
Lower Watertown Dam is owned by Rock River Power and Light Corporation (Private). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Lower Watertown Dam built?
Lower Watertown Dam was completed in 1904, making it 122 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 Watertown Dam?
Lower Watertown Dam serves the following purposes: Hydroelectric, Recreation, Flood Risk Reduction. Many dams in the U.S. are multi-purpose, supporting flood control, water supply, recreation, and other uses.
How tall is Lower Watertown Dam?
Lower Watertown Dam has a dam height of 11 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 Watertown Dam last inspected?
Lower Watertown Dam was last inspected on August 12, 2022. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.