Mendota Locks
Key Takeaway
Mendota Locks is classified as high hazard in Wisconsin. It was completed in 1849 and is 177 years old. Its primary use is navigation. 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 | 16 ft (taller than 48.8% in WI) |
| Dam Length | 100 ft |
| Dam Type | Other |
| Max Storage | 160.0K acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 132.0K acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 9,730 acres |
| Drainage Area | 254 sq mi |
| Max Discharge | 1,860 cfs |
| Year Completed | 1849 (177 years old) |
| NID ID | WI00621 |
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
Dane County
Local Government
Nearby Dams
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Mendota Locks?
Mendota Locks 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 Mendota Locks?
Mendota Locks is owned by Dane County (Local Government). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Mendota Locks built?
Mendota Locks was completed in 1849, making it 177 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 Mendota Locks?
Mendota Locks serves the following purposes: Navigation, Recreation. Many dams in the U.S. are multi-purpose, supporting flood control, water supply, recreation, and other uses.
How tall is Mendota Locks?
Mendota Locks has a dam height of 16 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 Mendota Locks last inspected?
Mendota Locks was last inspected on June 19, 2020. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.