Bear Lake Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Bear Lake, also known as Haugen, is a gravity dam located in Barron, Wisconsin, along Bear Creek.


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Summary

Built in 1880, the dam serves the primary purpose of recreation, with additional benefits for water supply. The lake has a normal storage capacity of 27,254 acre-feet, a surface area of 1,358 acres, and a maximum discharge of 933 cubic feet per second.

The dam stands at a height of 22 feet, with a hydraulic height of 13 feet, and a total length of 513 feet. It has a controlled spillway type and a hazard potential classified as low. Despite being rated in fair condition as of May 2020, the risk assessment for the dam is very high, indicating the need for ongoing monitoring and management measures to ensure safety.

Managed by the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources (WIDNR), Bear Lake offers a picturesque setting for outdoor enthusiasts and water resource aficionados to enjoy recreational activities. With its rich history dating back to the 19th century, the lake continues to be a vital resource for both the local community and visitors alike, highlighting the importance of sustainable water management practices in the face of climate change challenges.

Years Modified

1920 - Other

Year Completed

1880

Dam Length

513

Dam Height

22

River Or Stream

Bear Creek

Primary Dam Type

Gravity

Surface Area

1358

Hydraulic Height

13

Drainage Area

60

Nid Storage

38120

Structural Height

22

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

22
       
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.