Pine River Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 6, 2025

Located in Waushara, Wisconsin, the Pine River dam stands as a testament to the region's rich history and natural beauty.


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Summary

Constructed in 1856, this earth dam serves primarily for recreation and hydroelectric purposes, offering a tranquil spot for outdoor enthusiasts to enjoy the scenic surroundings. With a height of 16 feet and a length of 300 feet, the dam also plays a crucial role in managing water resources, with a storage capacity of 90 acre-feet and a maximum discharge of 4300 cubic feet per second.

Despite its age, the Pine River dam remains in fair condition, with a low hazard potential and a regular inspection frequency of 10 years. The dam's controlled spillway and very high risk assessment underscore the importance of effective risk management measures to ensure the safety of the surrounding community. With state regulation and enforcement by the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources, the Pine River dam continues to be a vital asset in the region's water resource management efforts.

Years Modified

1976 - Other

Year Completed

1856

Dam Length

300

Dam Height

16

River Or Stream

PINE RIVER

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

12

Hydraulic Height

14

Drainage Area

100

Nid Storage

90

Structural Height

16

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

16
       
Seasonal Comparison

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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.