Cranberry Creek Flowage Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Cranberry Creek Flowage, located in Douglas County, Wisconsin, is a man-made reservoir primarily designed for recreation purposes.


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Summary

Constructed in 1969 by the USDA NRCS, this Earth dam stands at a height of 12 feet and has a hydraulic height of 5 feet. With a storage capacity of 2500 acre-feet and a surface area of 346 acres, this flowage offers ample opportunities for water sports and outdoor activities.

Despite its recreational appeal, Cranberry Creek Flowage poses a high hazard potential, as indicated by its Hazard Potential rating. The dam's condition was last assessed as fair in 2012, and regular inspections are conducted to ensure its continued safety and functionality. The reservoir is State-regulated by the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources, with permitting, inspection, and enforcement processes in place to oversee its operation.

For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Cranberry Creek Flowage presents an intriguing case study in dam management and risk assessment. With a very high risk rating and a controlled spillway type, this reservoir serves as a critical water resource while also requiring careful monitoring and maintenance to mitigate potential hazards. As it continues to be a popular recreational destination, the flowage's management and safety measures will be vital to ensure both public enjoyment and environmental protection in the years to come.

Year Completed

1969

Dam Length

600

Dam Height

12

River Or Stream

Cranberry Creek

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

346

Hydraulic Height

5

Drainage Area

9.7

Nid Storage

2500

Structural Height

12

Hazard Potential

High

Nid Height

12
       
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.