Wissota
Key Takeaway
Wissota is classified as high hazard in Wisconsin. It was completed in 1917 and is 109 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 | 68 ft (taller than 99.5% in WI) |
| Dam Length | 7,800 ft |
| Dam Type | Gravity |
| Max Storage | 56.0K acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 56.0K acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 6,212 acres |
| Drainage Area | 5,528 sq mi |
| Max Discharge | 272,000 cfs |
| Year Completed | 1917 (109 years old) |
| NID ID | WI00730 |
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
Northern States Power Co
Public Utility
Nearby Dams
Chippewa Falls
Chippewa, WI
Low Hazard 30 ftGlen Loch
Chippewa, WI
High Hazard 37 ftTilden
Chippewa, WI
Low Hazard 16 ftLake Hallie
Chippewa, WI
Low Hazard 23 ftBowe
Chippewa, WI
Low Hazard 20 ftJim Falls
Chippewa, WI
High Hazard 55 ftAltoona
Eau Claire, WI
High Hazard 44 ftSvetlik Milling Company
Chippewa, WI
Low Hazard 14 ftFrequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Wissota?
Wissota 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 Wissota?
Wissota is owned by Northern States Power Co (Public Utility). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Wissota built?
Wissota was completed in 1917, making it 109 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 Wissota?
Wissota serves the following purposes: Hydroelectric, Recreation, Flood Risk Reduction. Many dams in the U.S. are multi-purpose, supporting flood control, water supply, recreation, and other uses.
How tall is Wissota?
Wissota has a dam height of 68 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 Wissota last inspected?
Wissota was last inspected on July 20, 2022. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.