Musser Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 6, 2025

Musser Dam, located on the Big Elk River in Price, Wisconsin, was completed in 1936 with a primary purpose of recreation.


°F

°F

mph

Wind

%

Humidity

Summary

This gravity-type dam stands at a height of 21 feet and has a hydraulic height of 12 feet, with a structural height matching the dam height. The dam has a length of 150 feet and a storage capacity of 5600 acre-feet, with a normal storage level of 2790 acre-feet.

Despite its age, Musser Dam is in satisfactory condition with low hazard potential, as indicated by a recent inspection in October 2019. The dam has a controlled spillway with a width of 63 feet and a maximum discharge capacity of 4900 cubic feet per second. The risk assessment for Musser Dam rates it as very high (1), emphasizing the need for ongoing monitoring and management to ensure the safety and integrity of the structure.

Given its importance for recreation and its role in water resource management, Musser Dam is regulated by the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources (WIDNR) with state permitting, inspection, and enforcement in place. The dam has undergone modifications in 1994 and 2001, reflecting a commitment to its continued operation and safety. With its picturesque location and vital function in the region, Musser Dam serves as a key asset for both local residents and visitors to enjoy.

Years Modified

1994 - Other, 2001 - Other

Year Completed

1936

Dam Length

150

Dam Height

21

River Or Stream

BIG ELK

Primary Dam Type

Gravity

Surface Area

563

Hydraulic Height

12

Drainage Area

83

Nid Storage

5600

Structural Height

21

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

21
       
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.