Brunner Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Brunner is a privately owned dam located in Dane County, Wisconsin.


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Summary

Built in 1962 by the USDA NRCS, this earth dam stands at 23 feet in height and spans 645 feet in length. It serves multiple purposes, including fire protection and creating a small fish pond, with a storage capacity of 60 acre-feet. The dam is regulated by the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources and undergoes regular inspections to ensure its fair condition and low hazard potential.

Situated on the TR SUGAR river, Brunner dam plays a crucial role in water resource management in the region. Despite its fair condition, the dam is considered to have a very high risk potential, as indicated by a rating of 1. Emergency action plans are in place, with regular inspections and risk assessments conducted to mitigate any potential hazards. The dam's controlled spillway and low hazard potential contribute to its overall safety and effectiveness in managing water flow and storage.

With its strategic location and important functions in fire protection and water storage, Brunner dam serves as a vital structure in Dane County, Wisconsin. Managed by the Natural Resources Conservation Service, the dam's consistent inspection and maintenance ensure its continued safety and contribution to the region's water resource management. As climate and water resource enthusiasts, Brunner dam represents a fascinating intersection of human infrastructure and environmental stewardship in the face of changing climate patterns.

Year Completed

1962

Dam Length

645

Dam Height

23

River Or Stream

TR SUGAR

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

3

Hydraulic Height

10

Drainage Area

4

Nid Storage

60

Structural Height

23

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

23
       
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.