Sawyer Dike Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Sawyer Dike, located in Oneida, Wisconsin, along the Wisconsin River, is a vital structure designed for flood risk reduction and hydroelectric power generation.


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Summary

Built in 1935, this earth dam stands at a height of 20 feet and stretches over 800 feet in length. Managed by the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission, Sawyer Dike plays a crucial role in regulating water flow and mitigating flood hazards in the region.

With a maximum storage capacity of 46,006 acre-feet and a maximum discharge of 32,500 cubic feet per second, Sawyer Dike is equipped to handle high-risk scenarios. Despite its age, the dam's hazard potential is classified as high, highlighting the importance of regular inspections and risk management measures. While its condition assessment is currently not available, Sawyer Dike remains a key infrastructure for water resource management in Wisconsin.

As a public utility structure, Sawyer Dike serves both practical and environmental purposes, showcasing the intersection of water resource management and climate resilience. Its presence not only helps in flood control but also contributes to sustainable energy production through hydroelectric power generation. With its strategic location and design features, Sawyer Dike stands as a testament to the ongoing efforts to balance water resource management and climate adaptation in the face of changing environmental conditions.

Year Completed

1935

Dam Length

800

Dam Height

20

River Or Stream

Wisconsin River

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Nid Storage

46006

Hazard Potential

High

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

20
       
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.