High Hopes Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 6, 2025

High Hopes, located in Taylor, Wisconsin, is a privately owned earth dam constructed in 1973 by the USDA NRCS for fire protection, stock, or small fish pond purposes.


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Summary

This dam stands at a height of 20 feet with a hydraulic height of 15 feet and a length of 330 feet, providing a storage capacity of 60 acre-feet. The dam's controlled spillway type ensures effective water management, with a low hazard potential and fair condition assessment.

This dam on the TR PAUGEL river in Wisconsin plays a vital role in maintaining water resources for the surrounding area, serving as a valuable asset for fire protection and agricultural water supply. Despite its fair condition, regular inspections and enforcement by the WIDNR ensure its continued functionality and safety. High Hopes stands as a testament to the collaborative efforts of government agencies and private owners in managing water resources effectively while mitigating potential risks posed by climate-related uncertainties.

With a very high risk assessment rating, High Hopes highlights the importance of proactive risk management measures to safeguard against potential emergencies. The dam's strategic location and design contribute to its crucial role in water resource management, reflecting a commitment to sustainable water use practices. As water resource and climate enthusiasts, understanding the significance of structures like High Hopes is essential in promoting resilient infrastructure and ensuring the long-term sustainability of water sources in the face of changing climatic conditions.

Year Completed

1973

Dam Length

330

Dam Height

20

River Or Stream

TR PAUGEL

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

7

Hydraulic Height

15

Drainage Area

0.4

Nid Storage

60

Structural Height

20

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

20
       
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.