Little Sand Lake 1 Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Little Sand Lake 1, also known as Maple Plains, is a gravity dam located in Barron, Wisconsin, specifically on Sand Creek.


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Summary

Completed in 1940, this local government-owned structure serves multiple purposes, with a primary purpose listed as "Other." The dam stands at a height of 10.3 feet, with a hydraulic height of 3.1 feet and a length of 100 feet. It has a storage capacity of 800 acre-feet and covers a surface area of 94 acres, with a drainage area of 2 square miles.

Despite its age, Little Sand Lake 1 is in fair condition and poses a low hazard potential. It is regulated by the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources (WIDNR), with regular inspections conducted every 10 years. The dam has a moderate risk assessment rating, indicating a level 3 risk. While there have been modifications in 2002, the structure remains stable and has not required major interventions. With its controlled spillway and efficient design, Little Sand Lake 1 continues to play a vital role in managing water resources in the region and ensuring the safety of surrounding communities in the event of emergencies.

Years Modified

2002 - Other

Year Completed

1940

Dam Length

100

Dam Height

10.3

River Or Stream

Sand Creek

Primary Dam Type

Gravity

Surface Area

94

Hydraulic Height

3.1

Drainage Area

2

Nid Storage

800

Structural Height

10.3

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

10
       
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.