Little Tamarack Creek Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Little Tamarack Creek, located in Vilas County, Wisconsin, is a state-owned structure with a primary purpose of recreation.


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Summary

The creek is regulated by the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources and has been in operation since 1953. The dam, a gravity type structure, stands at a height of 20 feet and has a hydraulic height of 14 feet, with a storage capacity of 150 acre-feet.

With a low hazard potential and a very high risk assessment rating, Little Tamarack Creek poses potential risks that require attention. Despite being in operation for several decades, the dam's condition has not been officially rated, and its last inspection dates back to 1993. The structure has a drainage area of 10 square miles, a normal storage capacity of 60 acre-feet, and a maximum discharge of 350 cubic feet per second, making it a significant feature in the local water resource management system.

Water resource and climate enthusiasts will find Little Tamarack Creek an intriguing case study, given its historical significance, potential risk factors, and the need for further assessment and management measures. With its recreational purpose and location in a picturesque setting, the creek serves as a valuable resource for both the local community and environmental conservation efforts in the region.

Year Completed

1953

Dam Length

50

Dam Height

20

River Or Stream

LITTLE TAMARACK CR.

Primary Dam Type

Gravity

Surface Area

26

Hydraulic Height

14

Drainage Area

10

Nid Storage

150

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.