Little Sand Lake 4 Reservoir Report
Nearby: Little Sand Lake 1 Beaver Dam Lake
Last Updated: December 5, 2025
Little Sand Lake 4, also known as Aple Plains Fish Hatchery, is a gravity dam located in Barron, Wisconsin.
°F
°F
mph
Wind
%
Humidity
Summary
Completed in 1940, this dam serves as the outlet of a rearing pond and is owned and regulated by the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources. With a height of 17 feet and a length of 200 feet, Little Sand Lake 4 has a storage capacity of 190 acre-feet and a normal storage of 80 acre-feet, covering a surface area of 22 acres.
Despite being classified as having a low hazard potential, Little Sand Lake 4 is considered to have a very high risk, with a risk assessment rating of 1. The dam has not been rated for its condition assessment, and its emergency action plan status is unknown. With a maximum discharge capacity of 140 cubic feet per second, Little Sand Lake 4 plays a crucial role in water resource management in the area, contributing to the overall environmental health and sustainability of the region.
As a site of interest for water resource and climate enthusiasts, Little Sand Lake 4 provides a fascinating glimpse into the infrastructure and management of water resources in Wisconsin. With its unique design and purpose, this gravity dam offers insights into the conservation and utilization of water for both practical and environmental purposes. Located in a picturesque setting, Little Sand Lake 4 is a testament to the importance of sustainable water management practices in the face of climate change and evolving regulatory standards.
Year Completed |
1940 |
Dam Length |
200 |
Dam Height |
17 |
River Or Stream |
OUTLET OF REARING POND |
Primary Dam Type |
Gravity |
Surface Area |
22 |
Hydraulic Height |
11 |
Drainage Area |
1 |
Nid Storage |
190 |
Structural Height |
17 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Nid Height |
17 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
St. Croix River At St. Croix Falls
|
1470cfs |
St. Croix River Near Danbury
|
1650cfs |
Hay River At Wheeler
|
235cfs |
Red Cedar River Near Colfax
|
593cfs |
Chippewa River Near Bruce
|
668cfs |
Snake River Near Pine City
|
127cfs |
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 |
|---|---|---|
Kirby Lake Primitive
|
||
Eagle Point Campground
|
||
WhitetailRidge Campground
|
Little Sand Lake 4
Sand Lake -- Access