Bluegill Impoundment Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 8, 2025

Bluegill Impoundment in Oconto, Wisconsin, is a Federal-owned fish and wildlife pond located along Bluegill Creek.


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Summary

Managed by the USDA Forest Service, this earth dam structure was completed in 1998 and serves multiple purposes, including recreation and wildlife conservation. With a hydraulic height of 10 feet and a structural height of 15 feet, the impoundment has a storage capacity of 350 acre-feet and covers a surface area of 75 acres.

Although Bluegill Impoundment has a low hazard potential, it is subject to moderate risk due to its proximity to the creek and surrounding drainage area. The uncontrolled spillway, with a width of 7 feet, allows for a maximum discharge of 200 cubic feet per second. While the dam's condition assessment is not rated, it undergoes inspections every 10 years, with the last one conducted in April 2012. Emergency action plans have not been prepared, but the impoundment meets regulatory guidelines and is managed effectively by the Forest Service.

Overall, Bluegill Impoundment provides a vital habitat for local wildlife and offers recreational opportunities for visitors. Its strategic location along Bluegill Creek highlights the importance of sustainable water resource management and climate resilience in maintaining the ecological balance of the surrounding area. With proper monitoring and risk management measures in place, this Federal-owned structure continues to play a significant role in the conservation and enjoyment of Wisconsin's natural resources.

Year Completed

1998

Dam Length

250

River Or Stream

BLUEGILL CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

75

Hydraulic Height

10

Drainage Area

3

Nid Storage

350

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.