Upper Beaver Dam
Key Takeaway
Upper Beaver Dam is classified as high hazard in Wisconsin. It was completed in 1840 and is 186 years old. Its primary use is recreation. 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 | 100 ft |
| Dam Type | Earth |
| Max Storage | 57.0K acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 30.7K acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 6,542 acres |
| Drainage Area | 157 sq mi |
| Max Discharge | 750 cfs |
| Year Completed | 1840 (186 years old) |
| NID ID | WI00119 |
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
City Of Beaver Dam
Local Government
Nearby Dams
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Upper Beaver Dam?
Upper Beaver Dam 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 Upper Beaver Dam?
Upper Beaver Dam is owned by City Of Beaver Dam (Local Government). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Upper Beaver Dam built?
Upper Beaver Dam was completed in 1840, making it 186 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 Beaver Dam?
Upper Beaver Dam serves the following purposes: Recreation. Many dams in the U.S. are multi-purpose, supporting flood control, water supply, recreation, and other uses.
How tall is Upper Beaver Dam?
Upper Beaver Dam 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 Upper Beaver Dam last inspected?
Upper Beaver Dam was last inspected on September 20, 2021. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.