Brickbauer Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Brickbauer is a privately owned dam located in Sheboygan, Wisconsin, along the Mullet River.


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Summary

Built in 1865, this gravity-type dam stands at a height of 11 feet and has a length of 750 feet. The primary purpose of Brickbauer Dam is recreation, providing a storage capacity of 70 acre-feet and a surface area of 15 acres. With a drainage area of 72 square miles, the dam has a maximum discharge of 300 cubic feet per second.

Despite its age, Brickbauer Dam is still in fair condition, with a high hazard potential and a very high risk assessment rating. The dam is state-regulated by the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources (WIDNR) and undergoes regular inspections every two years. The dam features a controlled spillway and is located in a rural area with a relatively low population density. However, the dam's risk management measures and emergency action plan status are currently unknown, raising concerns about its resilience to potential climate-related incidents.

Water resource and climate enthusiasts may find Brickbauer Dam an intriguing case study due to its historical significance, recreational value, and high-risk profile. As climate change continues to impact water resources and infrastructure across the globe, understanding the vulnerabilities and resilience of dams like Brickbauer becomes increasingly important for ensuring public safety and environmental sustainability. The data provided offers a glimpse into the complexities of managing aging infrastructure in the face of evolving environmental challenges, highlighting the need for proactive risk management and emergency preparedness in the water resource sector.

Year Completed

1865

Dam Length

750

Dam Height

11

River Or Stream

MULLET

Primary Dam Type

Gravity

Surface Area

15

Hydraulic Height

8

Drainage Area

72

Nid Storage

70

Structural Height

11

Hazard Potential

High

Nid Height

11
       
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.