Miller Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Miller, also known as Diversion Dike, is a crucial structure located in Barron, Wisconsin, designed by the USDA NRCS to serve as a debris control system along the Hay Offstream river.


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Summary

Completed in 1972, this earth dam stands at a height of 39 feet and spans a length of 1385 feet, with a storage capacity of 80 acre-feet. Despite its low hazard potential and moderate risk assessment, Miller is regulated by the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources, with regular inspections and enforcement measures in place to ensure its safety and functionality.

Owned by the local government, Miller also serves multiple purposes including fire protection, stock watering, small fish pond habitat, and recreation. With a drainage area of 0.1 square miles and a maximum discharge capacity of 50 cubic feet per second, this structure plays a vital role in managing water resources in the area. Although its condition assessment is currently not rated, the structure's emergency action plan and risk management measures are under review to meet guidelines and ensure the safety of the surrounding community in case of any unforeseen events.

Situated in a remote location and undisturbed by urban development, Miller remains a key player in the water resource management and climate resilience efforts in the region. With its uncontrolled spillway system and proximity to the Detroit District, this structure stands as a testament to the intricate network of infrastructure designed to protect communities and ecosystems from potential water-related risks. As climate change continues to pose challenges to water resources, structures like Miller will play an increasingly important role in ensuring the safety and sustainability of our water supply.

Year Completed

1972

Dam Length

1385

Dam Height

39

River Or Stream

Hay Offstream

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Hydraulic Height

8

Drainage Area

0.1

Nid Storage

80

Structural Height

39

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

39
       
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.