Independence Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 13, 2025

Independence, also known as Bugle Lake, is a gravity dam located in Trempealeau, Wisconsin.


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Summary

Completed in 1877, this dam serves primarily for recreational purposes, offering a serene setting for outdoor enthusiasts to enjoy. With a height of 23 feet and a storage capacity of 350 acre-feet, Independence is a vital part of the local ecosystem, providing a surface area of 35 acres for wildlife and water-based activities.

Managed by the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources, Independence is regulated, inspected, and enforced to ensure its structural integrity and safety. Despite being classified as having a high hazard potential, a recent condition assessment deemed it to be in fair condition as of September 2020. The dam's risk assessment indicates a very high risk level, emphasizing the importance of ongoing monitoring and risk management measures to safeguard the surrounding community and environment.

Independence's location on Elk Creek and its controlled spillway design further highlight its importance in managing water resources and mitigating flood risks in the area. With its rich history dating back over a century and ongoing efforts to maintain its functionality, Independence stands as a testament to the intersection of water resource management, climate resilience, and recreational opportunities for the local community and visitors alike.

Years Modified

1937 - Other

Year Completed

1877

Dam Length

100

Dam Height

23

River Or Stream

ELK CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Gravity

Surface Area

35

Hydraulic Height

12

Drainage Area

113

Nid Storage

350

Structural Height

23

Hazard Potential

High

Nid Height

23
       
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.