Mlsna

UN Trib. to Knapp Creek· Vernon, Wisconsin· Built 1956· Earth· 35 ft tall
High Hazard Flood Risk Reduction Debris Control Local Government

Key Takeaway

Mlsna is classified as high hazard in Wisconsin. It was completed in 1956 and is 70 years old. Its primary use is flood risk reduction. 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 35 ft (taller than 88.5% in WI)
Dam Length580 ft
Dam TypeEarth
Max Storage257 acre-ft
Normal Storage0 acre-ft
Surface Area18 acres
Drainage Area2 sq mi
Max Discharge1,800 cfs
Year Completed1956 (70 years old)
NID IDWI00403

Safety Information

High Hazard

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?

Emergency Action Plan: Yes
Last Inspection: May 11, 2020
State Regulated: Yes
Regulatory Agency: WIDNR

Ownership

Vernon County

Local Government

Nearby Dams

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the hazard classification of Mlsna?

Mlsna 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 Mlsna?

Mlsna is owned by Vernon County (Local Government). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.

When was Mlsna built?

Mlsna was completed in 1956, making it 70 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 Mlsna?

Mlsna serves the following purposes: Flood Risk Reduction, Debris Control. Many dams in the U.S. are multi-purpose, supporting flood control, water supply, recreation, and other uses.

How tall is Mlsna?

Mlsna has a dam height of 35 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 Mlsna last inspected?

Mlsna was last inspected on May 11, 2020. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.

Data from the National Inventory of Dams (NID) maintained by the US Army Corps of Engineers. Dam conditions may have changed since the last update. This site is not affiliated with USACE. Do not use for emergency planning — contact your local dam safety program.