Callahan Lake Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Callahan Lake in Sawyer, Wisconsin, is a privately owned reservoir with a primary purpose of recreation.


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Summary

The dam at Callahan Lake is a gravity type structure with a height of 15 feet and a hydraulic height of 3.1 feet. Completed in 1938, the dam has a storage capacity of 6,300 acre-feet and a surface area of 586 acres. The lake is situated on the North Fork Chief River and is regulated by the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources.

Despite being classified as low hazard potential, Callahan Lake poses a very high risk due to its location and structural characteristics. The last inspection of the dam took place in December 1996, with an inspection frequency of 10 years. The condition assessment of the dam is currently not rated, indicating a need for further evaluation and maintenance. Emergency action plans and inundation maps for the reservoir have not been prepared, highlighting potential gaps in emergency preparedness.

Water resource and climate enthusiasts interested in Callahan Lake will find a unique recreational spot with historical significance. The dam's construction in 1938 and subsequent modifications in 1954 contribute to the rich environmental and engineering heritage of the region. With its controlled spillway and low hazard potential, Callahan Lake presents both opportunities for recreational activities and challenges for ensuring its safety and sustainability in the face of potential risks and emergencies.

Years Modified

1954 - Other

Year Completed

1938

Dam Length

50

Dam Height

15

River Or Stream

NORTH FORK CHIEF RIVER

Primary Dam Type

Gravity

Surface Area

586

Hydraulic Height

3.1

Drainage Area

22

Nid Storage

6300

Structural Height

15

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

15
       
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.