Dell Creek Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Dell Creek, also known as Lake Delton, is a gravity dam located in Sauk, Wisconsin, with a primary purpose of recreation.


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Summary

Built in 1927, the dam has a height of 30 feet and a hydraulic height of 24 feet, with a length of 400 feet and a storage capacity of 1420 acre-feet. The dam sits on Dell Creek and has a drainage area of 80 square miles, with a maximum discharge of 3870 cubic feet per second.

Despite being classified as low hazard potential, Dell Creek poses a very high risk due to its condition assessment being satisfactory. The dam has undergone regular inspections, with the last one in June 2018, and is regulated by the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources. Emergency action plans are in place, although they have not been updated recently. The dam's spillway is controlled, with a surface area of 267 acres and a maximum storage capacity of 2500 acre-feet.

Overall, Dell Creek serves as a vital water resource for the community, offering recreational opportunities while also posing a potential risk that must be managed effectively. With its historical significance and continued importance in the region, Dell Creek remains a focal point for water resource and climate enthusiasts interested in the intersection of human activity and natural ecosystems.

Year Completed

1927

Dam Length

400

Dam Height

30

River Or Stream

Dell Creek

Primary Dam Type

Gravity

Surface Area

267

Hydraulic Height

24

Drainage Area

80

Nid Storage

1420

Structural Height

30

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

30
       
Seasonal Comparison

Weather Forecast

Dam Data Reference

Condition Assessment

Satisfactory
No existing or potential dam safety deficiencies are recognized. Acceptable performance is expected under all loading conditions (static, hydrologic, seismic) in accordance with the minimum applicable state or federal regulatory criteria or tolerable risk guidelines.
Fair
No existing dam safety deficiencies are recognized for normal operating conditions. Rare or extreme hydrologic and/or seismic events may result in a dam safety deficiency. Risk may be in the range to take further action. Note: Rare or extreme event is defined by the regulatory agency based on their minimum
Poor A dam safety deficiency is recognized for normal operating conditions which may realistically occur. Remedial action is necessary. POOR may also be used when uncertainties exist as to critical analysis parameters which identify a potential dam safety deficiency. Investigations and studies are necessary.
Unsatisfactory
A dam safety deficiency is recognized that requires immediate or emergency remedial action for problem resolution.
Not Rated
The dam has not been inspected, is not under state or federal jurisdiction, or has been inspected but, for whatever reason, has not been rated.
Not Available
Dams for which the condition assessment is restricted to approved government users.

Hazard Potential Classification

High
Dams assigned the high hazard potential classification are those where failure or mis-operation will probably cause loss of human life.
Significant
Dams assigned the significant hazard potential classification are those dams where failure or mis-operation results in no probable loss of human life but can cause economic loss, environment damage, disruption of lifeline facilities, or impact other concerns. Significant hazard potential classification dams are often located in predominantly rural or agricultural areas but could be in areas with population and significant infrastructure.
Low
Dams assigned the low hazard potential classification are those where failure or mis-operation results in no probable loss of human life and low economic and/or environmental losses. Losses are principally limited to the owner's property.
Undetermined
Dams for which a downstream hazard potential has not been designated or is not provided.
Not Available
Dams for which the downstream hazard potential is restricted to approved government users.