Sandstone Rapids
Key Takeaway
Sandstone Rapids is classified as high hazard in Wisconsin. It was completed in 1925 and is 101 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 | 42 ft (taller than 94.4% in WI) |
| Dam Length | 420 ft |
| Dam Type | Gravity |
| Max Storage | 1.7K acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 1.6K acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 150 acres |
| Drainage Area | 675 sq mi |
| Max Discharge | 20,000 cfs |
| Year Completed | 1925 (101 years old) |
| NID ID | WI00760 |
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
Johnson Falls
Marinette, WI
High Hazard 43 ftNelligan Lake
Marinette, WI
High Hazard 23 ftGrosse
Marinette, WI
Low Hazard 18 ftMarsh Lake
Marinette, WI
Low Hazard 14 ftLake Noquebay
Marinette, WI
Low Hazard 7 ftHigh Falls
Marinette, WI
High Hazard 47 ftCaldron Falls
Marinette, WI
High Hazard 39 ftFrequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Sandstone Rapids?
Sandstone 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 Sandstone Rapids?
Sandstone 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 Sandstone Rapids built?
Sandstone Rapids was completed in 1925, making it 101 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 Sandstone Rapids?
Sandstone 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 Sandstone Rapids?
Sandstone Rapids has a dam height of 42 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 Sandstone Rapids last inspected?
Sandstone Rapids was last inspected on September 6, 2022. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.