Alma Mill 3 Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Alma Mill 3, also known as Lester Jost, is a local government-owned dam located in Buffalo, Wisconsin.


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Summary

Built in 1963 and designed by USDA NRCS, this Earth-type dam serves the primary purpose of debris control and flood risk reduction along the TR Mill Creek. With a height of 34 feet and a length of 620 feet, Alma Mill 3 has a storage capacity of 55 acre-feet, making it an essential structure in managing water resources in the area.

Managed by WIDNR, Alma Mill 3 is state-regulated and undergoes regular inspections to ensure its satisfactory condition and low hazard potential. The dam has a moderate risk assessment rating of 3 and is equipped with an uncontrolled spillway for managing excess water flow during high discharge events. Despite its age, Alma Mill 3 continues to play a crucial role in protecting the community and surrounding areas from the impacts of flooding and debris accumulation.

Overall, Alma Mill 3 stands as a testament to effective water resource management and climate resilience efforts in Wisconsin. With its strategic location and design, this dam serves as a vital component in the local infrastructure, safeguarding against potential hazards and mitigating flood risks for the community. As water resource and climate enthusiasts, it is important to recognize the significance of structures like Alma Mill 3 in promoting sustainable development and ensuring the safety and well-being of residents in flood-prone areas.

Years Modified

2002 - Other

Year Completed

1963

Dam Length

620

Dam Height

34

River Or Stream

TR MILL CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

2

Hydraulic Height

29

Drainage Area

1.4

Nid Storage

55

Structural Height

34

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

34
       
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.