Cranberry Creek Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 6, 2025
Cranberry Creek, located in Price County, Wisconsin, is a serene water resource that serves as a popular spot for recreational activities.
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Summary
The dam on Cranberry Creek, completed in 1973, stands at a height of 15.2 feet and has a hydraulic height of 7.5 feet. With a storage capacity of 300 acre-feet and a surface area of 55 acres, the dam helps regulate water flow in the area and provides opportunities for fishing, boating, and other outdoor pursuits.
Managed by the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources, Cranberry Creek Dam is classified as a low hazard structure with a fair condition assessment. The dam has a controlled spillway and a maximum discharge capacity of 465 cubic feet per second, ensuring the safety of the surrounding community in case of emergencies. Despite the relatively low hazard potential, the risk assessment for Cranberry Creek Dam indicates a very high risk level, highlighting the importance of continued monitoring and maintenance to mitigate potential issues.
For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Cranberry Creek offers a fascinating case study in dam management and recreational use. With its picturesque location and crucial role in water regulation, the dam serves as a valuable resource for the local community while also presenting challenges in risk management and infrastructure upkeep. As climate change continues to impact water resources, understanding and safeguarding structures like Cranberry Creek Dam become increasingly important to ensure the sustainability and resilience of our natural environments.
Year Completed |
1973 |
Dam Length |
800 |
Dam Height |
15.2 |
River Or Stream |
Cranberry Creek |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
55 |
Hydraulic Height |
7.5 |
Drainage Area |
2 |
Nid Storage |
300 |
Structural Height |
15.2 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Nid Height |
15 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Spirit River At Spirit Falls
|
24cfs |
Jump River At Sheldon
|
155cfs |
Chippewa River At Bishops Bridge Near Winter
|
251cfs |
Bear River Near Manitowish Waters
|
31cfs |
Flambeau River Near Bruce
|
616cfs |
Chippewa River Near Bruce
|
668cfs |
Dam Data Reference
Condition Assessment
SatisfactoryNo 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
HighDams 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.
Cranberry Creek
The Loop Town of Harmony