Giles White Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 12, 2025

Giles White, also known as Ontario, is a recreational dam located in Vernon, Wisconsin.


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Summary

This low-hazard structure stands at 11 feet tall with a hydraulic height of 4.3 feet, providing a maximum storage capacity of 121 acre-feet and covering a surface area of 60 acres. The dam is situated on the East Branch Kickapoo River and falls under the jurisdiction of the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources for regulation, permitting, inspection, and enforcement.

Despite not being rated for its condition assessment, Giles White serves primarily for recreational purposes and poses a low hazard potential. With a regular inspection frequency of 10 years, this earth and gravity dam has not been modified over the years and does not have an Emergency Action Plan in place. While the dam does not have any associated structures or outlet gates, it remains a notable feature in the area for water resource and climate enthusiasts interested in the management and conservation of water resources in Wisconsin.

In summary, Giles White is a recreational dam in Ontario, Wisconsin, with a focus on leisure activities and minimal risk potential. As part of the East Branch Kickapoo River system, this structure is regulated and inspected by the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources, ensuring its safe operation and minimal environmental impact. Water resource and climate enthusiasts can appreciate the importance of maintaining and monitoring dams like Giles White to protect the surrounding area and ensure sustainable water management practices in the region.

Dam Height

11

River Or Stream

EAST BR KICKAPOO R

Surface Area

60

Hydraulic Height

4.3

Drainage Area

117.5

Nid Storage

121

Structural Height

11

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

11
       
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.