Rice Lake Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Rice Lake, located in Barron, Wisconsin, is a reservoir on the Red Cedar River primarily used for hydroelectric power generation and recreation.


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Summary

Built in 1864, this gravity dam stands at 18 feet high and has a storage capacity of 10,300 acre-feet, with a normal storage level of 7,500 acre-feet. The dam has a surface area of 860 acres and drains an area of 396 square miles, making it a vital resource for the region's water supply and flood control.

Despite its age, Rice Lake's dam is in fair condition with a high hazard potential. The dam has undergone modifications in 1937 and 1983, and is regularly inspected by the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources for safety and regulatory compliance. The reservoir's risk assessment is rated as very high, emphasizing the importance of effective risk management strategies to protect the surrounding community and environment. With its rich history dating back over a century, Rice Lake serves as a significant landmark in the region's water resource infrastructure.

Years Modified

1937 - Other, 1983 - Other

Year Completed

1864

Dam Length

192

Dam Height

18

River Or Stream

Red Cedar

Primary Dam Type

Gravity

Surface Area

860

Hydraulic Height

12

Drainage Area

396

Nid Storage

10300

Structural Height

18

Hazard Potential

High

Nid Height

18
       
Seasonal Comparison

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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.