Saylesville Roller Mill Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

The Saylesville Roller Mill, located in Waukesha, Wisconsin, stands as a historic structure dating back to its completion in 1894.


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Summary

Situated along the picturesque White Creek, this gravity dam serves primarily for recreational purposes, offering visitors a serene and scenic spot for outdoor activities. With a dam height of 15 feet and a storage capacity of 135 acre-feet, this site provides a tranquil retreat for water resource and climate enthusiasts alike.

Maintained by private ownership, the Saylesville Roller Mill is regulated by the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources, ensuring its adherence to state permitting, inspection, and enforcement standards. Despite its low hazard potential and fair condition assessment, the dam poses a moderate risk due to its age and historical significance. Emergency preparedness measures are in place, though the last inspection in 2018 and condition assessment in 2020 suggest ongoing monitoring and maintenance to mitigate potential risks and ensure the safety of the surrounding community.

With its rich history, picturesque location, and moderate risk profile, the Saylesville Roller Mill stands as a notable landmark in Wisconsin's water resource infrastructure. As climate change continues to impact our natural surroundings, the preservation and upkeep of such historical structures become increasingly important for both recreational enjoyment and environmental sustainability. Whether exploring the surrounding area or studying the dam's design and functionality, this site offers a fascinating glimpse into the intersection of water resources, climate, and human ingenuity.

Year Completed

1894

Dam Length

600

Dam Height

15

River Or Stream

WHITE CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Gravity

Surface Area

45

Hydraulic Height

10

Drainage Area

27.9

Nid Storage

135

Structural Height

15

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

15
       
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.