Token Creek Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 6, 2025

Token Creek, located in Dane County, Wisconsin, is a privately owned earth dam completed in 1915 primarily for recreational purposes.


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Summary

The dam stands at a height of 13 feet with a hydraulic height of 8 feet, creating a reservoir with a storage capacity of 120 acre-feet. With a surface area of 23 acres and a drainage area of 10.4 square miles, Token Creek serves as a popular spot for outdoor activities and water-based recreation.

Despite its age, Token Creek dam has a low hazard potential and has not been rated for its condition. The spillway is of the controlled type, and the dam has a maximum discharge capacity of 1255 cubic feet per second. While the risk assessment for the dam is deemed very high, with a risk ranking of 1, there are currently no specific risk management measures in place. Regular inspections are conducted every 10 years to ensure the safety and functionality of the structure, although the emergency action plan status and inundation maps are currently not available.

Overall, Token Creek dam provides a picturesque setting for recreational activities along the flowing waters of Token Creek. With its historical significance and natural beauty, the dam continues to be a popular destination for water resource and climate enthusiasts looking to explore the diverse landscapes of Wisconsin while enjoying outdoor pursuits in a tranquil setting.

Year Completed

1915

Dam Length

300

Dam Height

13

River Or Stream

TOKEN CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

23

Hydraulic Height

8

Drainage Area

10.4

Nid Storage

120

Structural Height

13

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

13
       
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.