Olson Meadows Flowage Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Olson Meadows Flowage, located in Douglas County, Wisconsin, is a local government-owned water resource that serves primarily for recreation.


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Summary

The dam, completed in 1975, is an earth type structure standing at a height of 11 feet and with a hydraulic height of 9 feet. The flowage has a storage capacity of 200 acre-feet, with a normal storage level of 120 acre-feet, covering a surface area of 40 acres.

With a spillway type of "Controlled" and a hazard potential rated as "High", the Olson Meadows Flowage is subject to regular inspections by the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources to ensure its structural integrity and safety. The condition assessment in 2012 rated the dam's condition as "Fair", indicating the need for ongoing maintenance and monitoring. Despite its risk assessment being classified as "Very High (1)", the flowage remains a popular destination for water and climate enthusiasts seeking outdoor recreational opportunities in the region.

Overall, Olson Meadows Flowage provides a serene and picturesque setting for outdoor activities such as fishing, boating, and wildlife observation. While it faces certain challenges in terms of its hazard potential and risk assessment, the flowage continues to be a vital water resource for the community and a beloved spot for nature lovers to enjoy the beauty of Wisconsin's natural landscape.

Year Completed

1975

Dam Length

400

Dam Height

11

River Or Stream

TR LOWER OX CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

40

Hydraulic Height

9

Drainage Area

1.4

Nid Storage

200

Structural Height

11

Hazard Potential

High

Nid Height

11
       
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.