Doberstein Dike -Willow Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 8, 2025

The Doberstein Dike in Tomahawk, Wisconsin, is a private earth dam completed in 1927 with a primary purpose of hydroelectric power generation and flood risk reduction along the Tomahawk River.


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Summary

The dam stands at a height of 18 feet and a length of 1400 feet, providing a maximum storage capacity of 67,126 acre-feet and a drainage area of 310 square miles. Despite being regulated by the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission, the dam is not currently inspected by state agencies, posing a high hazard potential due to its age and condition assessment not being available.

Located in Oneida County, Wisconsin, the Doberstein Dike plays a crucial role in managing water resources and mitigating flood risks in the region. With no spillway and a high hazard potential, the dam's associated structures are closely monitored to ensure public safety and environmental protection. The dam's emergency action plan was last revised in December 2018, emphasizing the need for proactive risk management measures and adherence to federal guidelines for emergency preparedness.

As water resource and climate enthusiasts, understanding the critical role of infrastructure like the Doberstein Dike in balancing water management and hydroelectric power generation is key to promoting sustainable practices and safeguarding communities against potential hazards. With a high hazard potential and a risk assessment rating of 2, continued monitoring and maintenance of the dam are essential to ensure its structural integrity and resilience in the face of changing environmental conditions and increasing water resource challenges.

Year Completed

1927

Dam Length

1400

Dam Height

18

River Or Stream

Tomahawk River

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Drainage Area

310

Nid Storage

67126

Hazard Potential

High

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

18
       
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.