Washington Creek Wildlife Are Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 22, 2025

Washington Creek Wildlife Area in Rusk, Wisconsin is a state-owned recreational site that boasts the picturesque Washington Creek running through it.


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Summary

The area is regulated by the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources and features a gravity dam completed in 1950, standing at a height of 9.9 feet and holding a maximum storage capacity of 1430 acre-feet. The dam serves primarily for recreational purposes and has a low hazard potential, with a satisfactory condition assessment as of October 2013.

The dam at Washington Creek Wildlife Area has seen modifications in 1969 and 2011, ensuring its continued functionality and safety. The area offers a surface area of 155 acres for visitors to enjoy, with a drainage area of 4.74 square miles. With a controlled spillway and a maximum discharge of 168 cubic feet per second, the dam provides both recreational opportunities and essential water resource management for the region. The risk assessment for the dam is classified as very high, emphasizing the importance of ongoing monitoring and management measures.

Despite the potential risks associated with high water levels, the Washington Creek Wildlife Area dam remains a valuable resource for both wildlife and climate enthusiasts. With its serene surroundings and vital role in water management, this site serves as a reminder of the delicate balance between harnessing natural resources for recreation and safeguarding against potential hazards. As visitors explore the area, they can appreciate the beauty of Washington Creek while recognizing the importance of responsible stewardship to ensure its continued preservation for future generations.

Years Modified

1969 - Other, 2011 - Other

Year Completed

1950

Dam Length

1700

Dam Height

9.9

River Or Stream

Washington Creek

Primary Dam Type

Gravity

Surface Area

155

Hydraulic Height

5.5

Drainage Area

4.74

Nid Storage

1430

Structural Height

9.9

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

10
       
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.