Wisconsin Rapids
Key Takeaway
Wisconsin Rapids is classified as low hazard in Wisconsin. It was completed in 1843 and is 183 years old. Its primary use is hydroelectric.
Physical Details
| Dam Height | 34 ft (taller than 87.2% in WI) |
| Dam Length | 6,040 ft |
| Dam Type | Gravity |
| Max Storage | 4.7K acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 4.7K acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 455 acres |
| Drainage Area | 5,420 sq mi |
| Max Discharge | 130,000 cfs |
| Year Completed | 1843 (183 years old) |
| NID ID | WI00817 |
Safety Information
No probable loss of human life and low economic/environmental losses expected.
Hazard potential describes downstream consequences of failure, not the dam's current condition. What does this mean?
Ownership
Consolidated Water Power Company
Private
Nearby Dams
Centralia
Wood, WI
Low Hazard 30 ftPort Edwards
Wood, WI
Low Hazard 22 ftBiron
Wood, WI
High Hazard 24 ftFour Mile Creek
Wood, WI
Low Hazard 33 ftSouth Wood County Park
Wood, WI
High Hazard 26 ftNekoosa
Wood, WI
Low Hazard 32 ftWood County 3
Wood, WI
Low Hazard 9 ftVesper
Wood, WI
Significant Hazard 13 ftFrequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Wisconsin Rapids?
Wisconsin Rapids is classified as Low Hazard. No probable loss of human life and low economic/environmental losses expected. This classification refers to the potential downstream consequences of a failure, not the dam's current structural condition.
Who owns and operates Wisconsin Rapids?
Wisconsin Rapids is owned by Consolidated Water Power Company (Private). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Wisconsin Rapids built?
Wisconsin Rapids was completed in 1843, making it 183 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 Wisconsin Rapids?
Wisconsin Rapids serves the following purposes: Hydroelectric, Irrigation, Recreation, Water Supply, Flood Risk Reduction. Many dams in the U.S. are multi-purpose, supporting flood control, water supply, recreation, and other uses.
How tall is Wisconsin Rapids?
Wisconsin Rapids has a dam height of 34 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 Wisconsin Rapids last inspected?
Wisconsin Rapids was last inspected on August 31, 2022. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.