Bradow Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 6, 2025

Bradow, also known as Rust Lake, is a private water resource located in Taylor, Wisconsin, along the WEST BRANCH WASHINGTON CREEK.


°F

°F

mph

Wind

%

Humidity

Summary

Completed in 1890, this Earth dam stands at 13 feet high and serves primarily for recreational purposes with a storage capacity of 80 acre-feet. Despite its fair condition assessment and low hazard potential, Bradow is subject to regular state regulation, inspection, and enforcement by the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources.

With a surface area of 12 acres and a drainage area of 5 square miles, Bradow offers a tranquil setting for outdoor activities and wildlife habitat. The dam's spillway is controlled, ensuring water flow management and safety. Even though the risk assessment indicates a very high level of risk (1), the dam has not been assigned a Dam Safety Action Classification as of now. The last inspection in April 2017 revealed no significant issues, and the dam is deemed to be in satisfactory condition for continued use.

For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Bradow presents a unique blend of historical significance, recreational potential, and environmental stewardship. Its location within the Detroit District of the US Army Corps of Engineers underscores its importance as a managed water infrastructure. As climate change impacts water resources, understanding and monitoring dams like Bradow will be crucial in ensuring their safety and functionality for the future.

Years Modified

1966 - Other

Year Completed

1890

Dam Length

200

Dam Height

13

River Or Stream

WEST BRANCH WASHINGTON CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

12

Hydraulic Height

9

Drainage Area

5

Nid Storage

80

Structural Height

13

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

13
       
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.