Buckatahpon Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Buckatahpon is a historic gravity dam located in Eagle River, Wisconsin, along the Buchataphon Creek.


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Summary

Built in 1908 for hydroelectric purposes, this dam stands at a height of 7.5 feet and has a length of 195 feet, providing storage of up to 13,705 acre-feet. Despite its age, Buckatahpon is classified as having low hazard potential and a very high risk assessment score of 1, indicating the importance of closely monitoring and maintaining this structure.

Managed by the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission, Buckatahpon is also used for flood risk reduction in addition to hydroelectric power generation. With a controlled spillway type and a single Tainter (radial) outlet gate, this dam plays a crucial role in managing water flow in the area. While its condition assessment is currently listed as "Not Available," regular inspections are conducted every 3 years to ensure its safety and stability.

Located within the Detroit District and under the jurisdiction of the state of Wisconsin, Buckatahpon serves as a key infrastructure for water resource and climate management in the region. As an essential component of the local water system, it is vital to continue monitoring and maintaining this dam to mitigate potential risks and ensure its continued functionality for the community.

Year Completed

1908

Dam Length

195

Dam Height

7.5

River Or Stream

Buchataphon Creek

Primary Dam Type

Gravity

Drainage Area

16.9

Nid Storage

13705

Outlet Gates

Tainter (radial) - 1

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Soil

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.