Spring Creek Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 6, 2025

Spring Creek is a private dam located in Portage, Wisconsin, with a primary purpose of recreation.


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Summary

Completed in 1854, this gravity dam stands at a height of 13 feet and has a storage capacity of 120 acre-feet. The dam, situated on the Spring Creek river, covers a surface area of 18 acres and serves as a popular spot for outdoor activities and water enthusiasts.

Despite its fair condition assessment, Spring Creek poses a high hazard potential due to its very high risk assessment rating. The dam is regulated by the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources, which conducts regular inspections and enforces safety measures to ensure the structure's integrity. With a controlled spillway and a hydraulic height of 10 feet, Spring Creek is a vital resource for the surrounding community and plays a crucial role in water management and recreational opportunities in the area.

For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Spring Creek offers a fascinating glimpse into the history and importance of dams in sustaining ecosystems and providing recreational outlets. This dam serves as a reminder of the delicate balance between human development and environmental preservation, highlighting the need for responsible stewardship of water resources in a changing climate. As efforts continue to maintain and enhance the safety of Spring Creek, its significance as a valuable asset for both nature and recreation remains evident.

Years Modified

1971 - Other

Year Completed

1854

Dam Length

60

Dam Height

13

River Or Stream

SPRING CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Gravity

Surface Area

18

Hydraulic Height

10

Drainage Area

17

Nid Storage

120

Structural Height

13

Hazard Potential

High

Nid Height

13
       
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.