Zester Reservoir Report
Nearby: Chequamegon Waters Dennis Gisvold
Last Updated: December 6, 2025
Zester, John, also known as Zester Fish Pond, is a private water resource located in Taylor, Wisconsin.
°F
°F
mph
Wind
%
Humidity
Summary
Constructed in 1969 by the USDA NRCS, this Earth-type dam stands at a height of 20.4 feet and has a hydraulic height of 15.6 feet, serving the primary purpose of water storage. With a normal storage capacity of 48 acre-feet and a maximum discharge of 222 cubic feet per second, the dam spans a length of 220 feet and covers a surface area of 21 acres.
Managed by the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources (WIDNR), Zester, John, is regulated, permitted, inspected, and enforced by state agencies, ensuring its safety and compliance with environmental standards. The dam's condition is assessed as fair, with a low hazard potential and a moderate risk level. Despite its age, Zester, John remains a vital water resource for the surrounding area, providing water storage and flood control for the Brush Creek tributary. With its controlled spillway, the dam contributes to the overall water management system in the region.
As a site of interest for water resource and climate enthusiasts, Zester, John offers a glimpse into the intersection of human infrastructure and natural ecosystems. With its historical significance and ongoing regulatory oversight, this dam serves as a focal point for understanding the challenges and opportunities in managing water resources in a changing climate. Whether studying its engineering design, ecological impact, or risk management measures, Zester, John presents a rich case study for those passionate about sustainable water management practices.
Year Completed |
1969 |
Dam Length |
220 |
Dam Height |
20.4 |
River Or Stream |
TR BRUSH CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
21 |
Hydraulic Height |
15.6 |
Drainage Area |
0.51 |
Nid Storage |
110 |
Structural Height |
20.4 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Nid Height |
20 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Jump River At Sheldon
|
155cfs |
Flambeau River Near Bruce
|
616cfs |
Chippewa River Near Bruce
|
668cfs |
Spirit River At Spirit Falls
|
24cfs |
Big Eau Pleine River At Stratford
|
27cfs |
Rib River At Rib Falls
|
60cfs |
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.
Kathryn Lake
Chippewa Recreation Area
Chippewa Campground Loop
Picnic Point Recreation Area Campground
Picnic Point Campground
West Point Recreation Area
Zester,John
Kathryn Lake -- Access