Phlox Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 6, 2025

Phlox is a gravity dam located on the Red River in Langlade, Wisconsin, with a primary purpose of recreation.


°F

°F

mph

Wind

%

Humidity

Summary

Completed in 1878, this historic structure stands at a height of 25 feet and has a length of 275 feet, providing a maximum storage capacity of 390 acre-feet. With a drainage area of 13 square miles and a maximum discharge of 1854 cubic feet per second, Phlox serves as a significant water resource in the region.

Maintained by the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources, Phlox is regulated, permitted, inspected, and enforced by state authorities to ensure its safety and functionality. The dam's hazard potential is deemed significant, but its condition assessment as of 2015 was satisfactory. Despite being at risk for emergencies, the risk management measures are not explicitly stated, indicating a need for further evaluation and preparedness in case of high-risk scenarios.

With a very high-risk assessment and a controlled spillway design, Phlox serves as a crucial structure for water management and recreational activities in the area. Its historical significance, combined with its modern regulatory oversight, highlights the importance of balancing preservation and safety in water resource management for both environmental and community benefits.

Years Modified

1927 - Other, 1992 - Other

Year Completed

1878

Dam Length

275

Dam Height

25

River Or Stream

RED RIVER

Primary Dam Type

Gravity

Surface Area

45

Hydraulic Height

22

Drainage Area

13

Nid Storage

390

Structural Height

25

Hazard Potential

Significant

Nid Height

25
       
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.