Black Brook Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Black Brook, located in Washburn, Wisconsin, is a dam with a primary purpose of recreation.


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Summary

Built in 1964, this earth dam stands at a height of 10 feet and has a length of 460 feet, providing a maximum storage capacity of 350 acre-feet. The dam, situated in a controlled spillway, covers a surface area of 70 acres and serves a drainage area of 0.5 square miles with a maximum discharge capacity of 35 cubic feet per second.

Despite being classified as having a low hazard potential, Black Brook's condition assessment is rated as fair. The last inspection in May 2020 revealed its maintenance and operational status. With a very high risk rating, this dam is subject to regular inspection every 10 years to ensure its structural integrity and safety. While it may not be a high-risk structure, the importance of maintaining and managing Black Brook is crucial due to its location and potential impact on the surrounding environment and community.

As water resource and climate enthusiasts, understanding the significance of Black Brook in terms of recreational value, water storage capacity, and risk assessment is vital. With the potential for environmental impact and the need for proper monitoring and maintenance, this dam serves as a reminder of the delicate balance between harnessing water resources for human use and safeguarding the natural environment. Keeping a close eye on Black Brook's condition and risk management measures will help ensure the safety and sustainability of this water resource for future generations.

Year Completed

1964

Dam Length

460

Dam Height

10

River Or Stream

BLACK BROOK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

70

Hydraulic Height

10

Drainage Area

0.5

Nid Storage

350

Structural Height

10

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.