Deer Creek Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Deer Creek, located in Sawyer County, Wisconsin, is a gravity dam built in 1960 primarily for recreational purposes.


°F

°F

mph

Wind

%

Humidity

Summary

The dam stands at 14 feet tall with a hydraulic height of 10 feet and a structural height of 14 feet, creating a reservoir with a maximum storage capacity of 4,000 acre-feet. With a normal storage level of 2,540 acre-feet and a surface area of 423 acres, Deer Creek provides a picturesque setting for outdoor activities such as fishing, boating, and wildlife observation.

Despite being classified as a low hazard potential structure with a fair condition assessment, Deer Creek poses a very high risk due to its location and associated factors. The dam has a controlled spillway type and a maximum discharge capacity of 850 cubic feet per second, ensuring controlled water release during heavy rainfall events. The dam is regulated, inspected, and enforced by the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources, with the last inspection conducted in January 2012.

For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Deer Creek offers a unique opportunity to study the impact of dams on local ecosystems and water management practices. The risk assessment of the dam highlights the importance of regular inspections and maintenance to ensure public safety and environmental preservation. As a vital recreational resource in the region, Deer Creek serves as a valuable case study for understanding the interconnectedness of water infrastructure, climate resilience, and sustainable recreational development in a changing environment.

Year Completed

1960

Dam Length

150

Dam Height

14

River Or Stream

DEER CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Gravity

Surface Area

423

Hydraulic Height

10

Drainage Area

10

Nid Storage

4000

Structural Height

14

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

14
       
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.