Tainter Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Tainter, also known as Bucks Lake, is a local government-owned dam located in Rusk, Wisconsin, along the Hemlock Creek.


°F

°F

mph

Wind

%

Humidity

Summary

Built in 1967 by the USDA NRCS, this earth dam serves primarily for recreational purposes, offering a surface area of 83 acres and a maximum storage capacity of 1350 acre-feet. With a structural height of 26 feet and a hydraulic height of 14.5 feet, Tainter has a controlled spillway type and a low hazard potential, deemed to be in fair condition as of its last assessment in October 2016.

Despite its recreational focus, Tainter Dam is also regulated by the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources, with state permitting, inspection, and enforcement in place. The dam has a very high risk assessment rating, denoting its critical importance in terms of potential impacts and the need for effective risk management measures. Although last modified in 2008, Tainter continues to be a significant water resource and climate asset in the region, attracting visitors and enthusiasts alike to its scenic surroundings and diverse recreational opportunities. With its stone core and solid foundation, this dam stands as a testament to the intersection of engineering, environmental stewardship, and public enjoyment.

Years Modified

2008 - Other

Year Completed

1967

Dam Length

450

Dam Height

26

River Or Stream

Hemlock Creek

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

83

Hydraulic Height

14.5

Drainage Area

7.7

Nid Storage

1350

Structural Height

26

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

26
       
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.