House Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

House, also known as Pfister, is a low hazard potential dam located in Sawyer, Wisconsin, along the Hay Creek.


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Summary

This local government-owned structure is state regulated, permitted, inspected, and enforced by the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources. Standing at a height of 11 feet with a hydraulic height of 13 feet, House has a normal storage capacity of 36 acre-feet and a maximum storage of 88.3 acre-feet.

Despite its fair condition assessment, House poses low hazard potential and has been last inspected in June 2018, with an inspection frequency of 10 years. The emergency action plan for the dam was last revised in July 2019. While there are no associated structures or federal agency involvements, House remains a crucial part of the local water resource infrastructure, ensuring flood control and water storage capabilities for the surrounding area. Climate and water resource enthusiasts will find House to be an interesting case study in dam management and regulation within the state of Wisconsin.

Located in the Detroit District, House offers a glimpse into the intricacies of dam operation and maintenance, with a focus on safety and risk management. With its state jurisdiction and regulatory oversight, House serves as a vital component in the water resource system of Sawyer County. For those passionate about water resource management and climate resilience, exploring the details of House provides valuable insights into the complexities of maintaining critical infrastructure in the face of changing environmental conditions.

Dam Height

11

River Or Stream

HAY CREEK

Hydraulic Height

13

Drainage Area

0.21

Nid Storage

88.3

Structural Height

11

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

13
       
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.