Upper Appleton Locks and Dam

FOX· Outagamie, Wisconsin· Built 1940· Concrete·
Significant Hazard Flood Risk Reduction Navigation Recreation Hydroelectric Water Supply Federal Government

Key Takeaway

Upper Appleton Locks and Dam is classified as significant hazard in Wisconsin. It was completed in 1940 and is 86 years old. Its primary use is flood risk reduction. Significant hazard means failure could cause economic or environmental damage. Learn more.

Physical Details

Dam Length691 ft
Dam TypeConcrete
Max Storage14.3K acre-ft
Normal Storage7.4K acre-ft
Surface Area582 acres
Drainage Area6,070 sq mi
Max Discharge27,000 cfs
Year Completed1940 (86 years old)
NID IDWI00851

Safety Information

Significant Hazard

No probable loss of human life, but can cause economic loss, environmental damage, or disruption of lifeline facilities.

Hazard potential describes downstream consequences of failure, not the dam's current condition. What does this mean?

Emergency Action Plan: Yes
Last Inspection: August 27, 2019
State Regulated: Yes

Ownership

USACE - Chicago District;Wisconsin DNR

Federal Government

Nearby Dams

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the hazard classification of Upper Appleton Locks and Dam?

Upper Appleton Locks and Dam is classified as Significant Hazard. No probable loss of human life, but can cause economic loss, environmental damage, or disruption of lifeline facilities. This classification refers to the potential downstream consequences of a failure, not the dam's current structural condition.

Who owns and operates Upper Appleton Locks and Dam?

Upper Appleton Locks and Dam is owned by USACE - Chicago District;Wisconsin DNR (Federal Government). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.

When was Upper Appleton Locks and Dam built?

Upper Appleton Locks and Dam was completed in 1940, making it 86 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 Upper Appleton Locks and Dam?

Upper Appleton Locks and Dam serves the following purposes: Flood Risk Reduction, Navigation, Recreation, Hydroelectric, Water Supply. Many dams in the U.S. are multi-purpose, supporting flood control, water supply, recreation, and other uses.

When was Upper Appleton Locks and Dam last inspected?

Upper Appleton Locks and Dam was last inspected on August 27, 2019. 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.