Horlicks Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 24, 2025

Horlicks is a gravity dam located in Racine, Wisconsin, on the Root River.


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Summary

Built in 1975, the dam serves primarily for recreation, with a storage capacity of 460 acre-feet and a normal storage of 160 acre-feet. The structure stands at a height of 19 feet and spans 180 feet in length, with a surface area of 60 acres and a drainage area of 186 square miles. The dam has a low hazard potential and is rated in fair condition as of its last assessment in May 2020.

Managed by the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources, Horlicks is subject to state regulation and inspection, with enforcement measures in place to ensure its safety and compliance. The dam features an uncontrolled spillway and a maximum discharge capacity of 4,000 cubic feet per second. Despite its moderate risk assessment rating, the dam continues to provide a valuable recreational resource for the local community, attracting water resource and climate enthusiasts who appreciate its scenic location and outdoor activities.

Overall, Horlicks dam represents a key piece of infrastructure in the region, offering both recreational opportunities and critical water management functions. With a focus on safety and regulatory compliance, this gravity dam on the Root River in Wisconsin continues to play a vital role in the local landscape, serving as a popular destination for water resource and climate enthusiasts alike.

Year Completed

1975

Dam Length

180

Dam Height

19

River Or Stream

ROOT

Primary Dam Type

Gravity

Surface Area

60

Hydraulic Height

12

Drainage Area

186

Nid Storage

460

Structural Height

19

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

19
       
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.