Howley Reservoir Report
Nearby: Independence Blair Mill
Last Updated: December 13, 2025
Howley, a privately-owned earth dam located in Trempealeau, Wisconsin, was designed by the USDA NRCS and completed in 1974.
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Summary
With a height of 33 feet and a length of 400 feet, this dam has a storage capacity of 40 acre-feet and serves a primary purpose of "Other." Despite having a low hazard potential, the dam is classified as moderate risk level 3 due to its condition assessment being marked as "Not Available."
Operated and funded by the Natural Resources Conservation Service, Howley features an uncontrolled spillway and outlet gates. The dam is situated on the Tr Turton Creek and falls under the jurisdiction of the Detroit District. Although the last inspection date is unknown, the inspection frequency is set at 10 years, indicating a need for periodic evaluation of the dam's structural integrity. With Congressman Ron Kind representing the area, Howley stands as a crucial structure in managing water resources and climate impacts in the region.
Enthusiasts of water resources and climate will find Howley to be an intriguing case study, showcasing the collaboration between private ownership and federal agencies in maintaining dam safety and functionality. As a part of the larger network of infrastructure designed to mitigate flood risks and regulate water flow, Howley's design and purpose reflect the ongoing efforts to balance environmental protection with human development. By understanding the intricacies of dams like Howley, stakeholders can better appreciate the complexities of managing water resources in a changing climate landscape.
Year Completed |
1974 |
Dam Length |
400 |
Dam Height |
33 |
River Or Stream |
Tr Turton Creek |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Nid Storage |
40 |
Outlet Gates |
Uncontrolled |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Nid Height |
33 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Trempealeau River At Arcadia
|
400cfs |
Trempealeau River At Dodge
|
953cfs |
Black River Near Galesville
|
862cfs |
Mississippi River At Winona
|
14700cfs |
Black River Ds St Hwy 54 @ Black River Falls
|
514cfs |
La Crosse River Near La Crosse
|
348cfs |
Dam Data Reference
Condition Assessment
SatisfactoryNo 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
HighDams 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.
Area Campgrounds
| Location | Reservations | Toilets |
|---|---|---|
Pietrek County Park
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Pietrek Park Campgrounds
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Lions Club - Four Seasons Park - Independence
|
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Riverside Memorial Park
|
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Col Larson County Park
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Howley