Plain Honey Creek 3 Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Plain Honey Creek 3, also known as White Mound Lake, is a vital water resource situated in Sauk County, Wisconsin.


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Summary

Managed by the local government with design input from USDA NRCS, this dam serves the primary purpose of flood risk reduction while also supporting debris control and recreation activities. Completed in 1970, this earth dam stands at a height of 45 feet and a length of 1070 feet, with a storage capacity of 2850 acre-feet and a drainage area of 7 square miles.

The dam's low hazard potential and fair condition assessment underscore its reliability in managing water flow and protecting the surrounding community. With a moderate risk assessment rating, Plain Honey Creek 3 is subject to regular inspections and maintenance, with the last assessment conducted in May 2020. The dam's uncontrolled spillway and emergency action plan readiness further ensure its operational effectiveness and public safety in the event of a flooding emergency.

Overall, Plain Honey Creek 3 serves as a critical infrastructure for flood control in the region, offering a balance between water resource management and recreational opportunities. With its strategic location on the Shannahan Branch of Honey Creek, this dam is a testament to effective collaboration between local government agencies and the USDA NRCS in safeguarding the community against natural disasters and promoting sustainable water usage practices.

Year Completed

1970

Dam Length

1070

Dam Height

45

River Or Stream

Shannahan Branch, Honey Creek

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

104

Hydraulic Height

32

Drainage Area

7

Nid Storage

2850

Structural Height

45

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

45
       
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.