Poplar River #1 Reservoir Report
Nearby: Owen City Kalepp, Lloyd
Last Updated: December 13, 2025
Poplar River #1, also known as Sportsman Lake, is a local government-owned dam in Clark County, Wisconsin, designed by USDA NRCS.
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Summary
Completed in 1978, this gravity dam stands at a height of 26 feet and has a hydraulic height of 12 feet. With a storage capacity of 9000 acre-feet, the dam primarily serves recreational purposes and has a surface area of 280 acres.
Located on Brick Creek in Owen, Wisconsin, Poplar River #1 is regulated by the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources and undergoes regular inspections to ensure its safety. The dam has a high hazard potential and is considered to be in fair condition, with a moderate risk assessment rating of 3. Although no associated structures or outlet gates are mentioned, the dam's spillover type is categorized as uncontrolled.
Water resource and climate enthusiasts interested in the management and maintenance of dams will find Poplar River #1 an intriguing case study. Its historical significance, design specifications, and regulatory framework provide valuable insights into the intersection of water infrastructure, environmental conservation, and public safety. With its picturesque setting and diverse ecosystem, Poplar River #1 exemplifies the importance of sustainable water resource management in a changing climate.
Year Completed |
1978 |
Dam Length |
5055 |
Dam Height |
26 |
River Or Stream |
BRICK CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Gravity |
Surface Area |
280 |
Hydraulic Height |
12 |
Drainage Area |
12 |
Nid Storage |
9000 |
Structural Height |
26 |
Hazard Potential |
High |
Nid Height |
26 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Big Eau Pleine River At Stratford
|
27cfs |
Black River At Neillsville
|
193cfs |
Jump River At Sheldon
|
155cfs |
Rib River At Rib Falls
|
60cfs |
Chippewa River At Chippewa Falls
|
1440cfs |
Flambeau River Near Bruce
|
651cfs |
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.
Poplar River #1