White Rapids

MENOMINEE· Marinette, Wisconsin· Built 1927· Gravity· 40 ft tall
High Hazard Hydroelectric Recreation Private

Key Takeaway

White Rapids is classified as high hazard in Wisconsin. It was completed in 1927 and is 99 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 40 ft (taller than 92.6% in WI)
Dam Length1,140 ft
Dam TypeGravity
Max Storage7.7K acre-ft
Normal Storage4.6K acre-ft
Surface Area455 acres
Drainage Area3,325 sq mi
Max Discharge74,500 cfs
Year Completed1927 (99 years old)
NID IDWI05012

Safety Information

High Hazard

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?

Emergency Action Plan: Yes
Last Inspection: February 3, 2015
State Regulated: No

Ownership

WE ENERGIES

Private

Nearby Dams

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the hazard classification of White Rapids?

White 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 White Rapids?

White Rapids is owned by WE ENERGIES (Private). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.

When was White Rapids built?

White Rapids was completed in 1927, making it 99 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 White Rapids?

White 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 White Rapids?

White Rapids has a dam height of 40 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 White Rapids last inspected?

White Rapids was last inspected on February 3, 2015. 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.