Hay Creek Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 6, 2025

Hay Creek, located in Iron County, Wisconsin, is a state-regulated earth dam completed in 1960 primarily for recreation purposes.


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Summary

The dam stands at 8 feet high and has a storage capacity of 240 acre-feet. With a normal storage capacity of 100 acre-feet and a maximum discharge of 167 cubic feet per second, the dam spans 450 feet in length and covers a surface area of 64 acres. Despite its fair condition assessment and low hazard potential, the risk assessment for Hay Creek has been classified as very high, indicating the need for heightened monitoring and risk management measures.

The dam is under the jurisdiction of the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources (WIDNR) and undergoes regular state inspections, with the last assessment conducted in May 2020. While the emergency action plan (EAP) status and risk management measures are not specified in the data, the dam's controlled spillway type and location in a high-risk area underscore the importance of preparedness and mitigation efforts. Situated within the Detroit District of the US Army Corps of Engineers, Hay Creek is a notable water resource for enthusiasts interested in the intersection of dam infrastructure, climate change, and recreational opportunities in the region.

Given the unique characteristics and risk profile of Hay Creek, stakeholders and climate enthusiasts should closely monitor updates and assessments related to its condition and emergency preparedness. As climate change continues to impact water resources and infrastructure resilience, understanding the potential vulnerabilities and management strategies for dams like Hay Creek is crucial for ensuring the safety of surrounding communities and the preservation of this valuable recreational resource. With its scenic location and recreational offerings, Hay Creek serves as a focal point for discussions on water resource management, climate resilience, and the importance of proactive risk mitigation in the face of evolving environmental challenges.

Year Completed

1960

Dam Length

450

Dam Height

8

River Or Stream

HAY CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

64

Hydraulic Height

5

Drainage Area

9.3

Nid Storage

240

Structural Height

8

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

8
       
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.