Upper Eau Claire Lake Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 13, 2025

Upper Eau Claire Lake, also known as Big Robinson Lake in Bayfield County, Wisconsin, is a privately-owned reservoir that serves primarily for recreational purposes.


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Summary

This gravity dam, completed in 1950, stands at a height of 6.1 meters and has a hydraulic height of 3 meters. With a storage capacity of 4000 acre-feet and a surface area of 1030 acres, this dam plays a crucial role in regulating water flow and providing water-based activities for enthusiasts in the area.

Managed by the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources, Upper Eau Claire Lake is subject to state regulations, inspections, and enforcement to ensure its safety and functionality. Located at coordinates 46.3043552 latitude and -91.5003605 longitude, this dam has a high hazard potential due to its condition assessment not being rated. Despite this, the risk assessment for the reservoir is moderate (3), emphasizing the need for continued monitoring and potential risk management measures to ensure the safety of surrounding communities and the environment.

For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Upper Eau Claire Lake offers a fascinating case study in dam management and the intersection of recreation with environmental stewardship. With its picturesque location in Bayfield County and its importance in water storage and regulation, this dam serves as a vital resource for the region while also posing potential risks that require proactive measures to mitigate. As efforts continue to ensure the safety and sustainability of this reservoir, it remains a key focal point for those interested in the intricate balance between human activities and natural ecosystems.

Year Completed

1950

Dam Height

6.1

Primary Dam Type

Gravity

Surface Area

1030

Hydraulic Height

3

Drainage Area

8

Nid Storage

4000

Structural Height

6.1

Hazard Potential

High

Nid Height

6
       
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.