Otter Rapids
Key Takeaway
Otter Rapids is classified as high hazard in Wisconsin. It was completed in 1907 and is 119 years old. Its primary use is hydroelectric. 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 | 20 ft (taller than 60.1% in WI) |
| Dam Length | 474 ft |
| Dam Type | Gravity |
| Max Storage | 42.3K acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 42.3K acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 3,916 acres |
| Drainage Area | 535 sq mi |
| Max Discharge | 12,700 cfs |
| Year Completed | 1907 (119 years old) |
| NID ID | WI00807 |
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
Wisconsin Public Service Corporation
Public Utility
Nearby Dams
Sugar Camp
Oneida, WI
Low Hazard 10 ftBuckatahpon
Vilas, WI
Low Hazard 8 ftLittle St Germain
Vilas, WI
Low Hazard 9 ftCranberry Lake
Vilas, WI
Low Hazard 8 ftBurnt Rollways
Oneida, WI
Low Hazard 16 ftMaple Lake
Oneida, WI
High Hazard 12 ftTwin Lakes
Vilas, WI
Low Hazard 10 ftLower Nine Mile
Oneida, WI
Low Hazard 12 ftFrequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Otter Rapids?
Otter Rapids 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 Otter Rapids?
Otter Rapids is owned by Wisconsin Public Service Corporation (Public Utility). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Otter Rapids built?
Otter Rapids was completed in 1907, making it 119 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 Otter Rapids?
Otter Rapids 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 Otter Rapids?
Otter Rapids has a dam height of 20 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 Otter Rapids last inspected?
Otter Rapids was last inspected on August 16, 2022. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.