Vander Veen Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 6, 2025

Vander Veen, also known as Byhre Creek, is a private-owned recreational dam located in Park Falls, Wisconsin.


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Summary

Completed in 1978, this Earth-type dam stands at a height of 25.9 feet with a hydraulic height of 20.4 feet. With a normal storage capacity of 450 acre-feet and a maximum discharge of 300 cubic feet per second, Vander Veen serves multiple purposes including fish and wildlife pond maintenance and recreational activities.

Despite its low hazard potential and fair condition assessment, Vander Veen poses a very high risk due to its proximity to the densely populated area of Price, Wisconsin. The dam has been regulated, inspected, and permitted by the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources to ensure its safety and compliance with state regulations. The last inspection took place in August 2011, with a recommended inspection frequency of every 10 years.

As a vital component of the local ecosystem and community, Vander Veen continues to provide essential recreational opportunities while managing water resources effectively. Its controlled spillway, extensive drainage area, and modest surface area make it a noteworthy structure for water resource and climate enthusiasts in the region.

Years Modified

1998 - Other

Year Completed

1978

Dam Length

300

Dam Height

25.9

River Or Stream

BYHRE CR

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

30

Hydraulic Height

20.4

Drainage Area

3.3

Nid Storage

1000

Structural Height

25.9

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

26
       
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.