Ehne Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Ehne, a private dam located in Washington County, Wisconsin, stands as a recreation spot along a tributary to Wallace Creek.


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Summary

Built in 1931, this earth-type dam boasts a height of 20 feet and a length of 150 feet, with a storage capacity of 150 acre-feet. With a normal storage level of 96 acre-feet and a surface area of 18 acres, Ehne offers a serene setting for outdoor enthusiasts to enjoy water-based activities.

Although classified as having a low hazard potential and fair condition assessment, Ehne is subject to state regulation, permitting, inspection, and enforcement by the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources (WIDNR). The dam's spillway, with an uncontrolled design and a width of 14 feet, can handle a maximum discharge of 40 cubic feet per second. Despite its moderate risk level, with a risk assessment of 3 out of 5, Ehne continues to provide recreational opportunities while maintaining a safe and regulated environment for visitors.

For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Ehne serves as a prime example of a privately owned dam that not only enhances the local landscape but also fulfills a crucial role in providing recreational opportunities to the community. With its historical significance, environmental impact, and regulatory framework overseen by the WIDNR, Ehne stands as a testament to the delicate balance between human recreation and natural resource management in the state of Wisconsin.

Year Completed

1931

Dam Length

150

Dam Height

20

River Or Stream

Trib. to Wallace Creek

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

18

Hydraulic Height

16

Drainage Area

0.9

Nid Storage

150

Structural Height

20

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

20
       
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.
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Area Campgrounds