Spirit
Key Takeaway
Spirit is classified as high hazard in Wisconsin. It was completed in 1922 and is 104 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 | 26 ft (taller than 73.4% in WI) |
| Dam Length | 2,530 ft |
| Dam Type | Gravity |
| Max Storage | 15.4K acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 1,698 acres |
| Drainage Area | 158 sq mi |
| Max Discharge | 16,700 cfs |
| Year Completed | 1922 (104 years old) |
| NID ID | WI00749 |
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 Valley Improvement Company
Public Utility
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Low Hazard 9 ftFrequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Spirit?
Spirit 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 Spirit?
Spirit is owned by Wisconsin Valley Improvement Company (Public Utility). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Spirit built?
Spirit was completed in 1922, making it 104 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 Spirit?
Spirit serves the following purposes: Hydroelectric, Flood Risk Reduction. Many dams in the U.S. are multi-purpose, supporting flood control, water supply, recreation, and other uses.
How tall is Spirit?
Spirit has a dam height of 26 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 Spirit last inspected?
Spirit was last inspected on August 5, 2022. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.