East Sparta Reservoir Report
Nearby: Stillwell East Silver
Last Updated: December 14, 2025
East Sparta, also known as East Sparta Lake, is a federal-owned recreational water resource located in Fort McCoy, Wisconsin.
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Summary
Constructed in 1945 by Stabb Construction under the supervision of the US Army, this earth dam structure spans 210 feet with a height of 12 feet, creating a reservoir with a storage capacity of 61 acre-feet. The primary purpose of East Sparta is for recreation, offering a tranquil setting for outdoor enthusiasts to enjoy activities such as fishing and boating.
Situated on Sparta Creek, East Sparta serves as a significant water source for the local area, providing a surface area of 4 acres and a normal storage capacity of 25 acre-feet. While the dam is categorized as having a significant hazard potential, it has not undergone recent condition assessments. Despite this, the risk assessment for East Sparta indicates a high level of risk, emphasizing the importance of proper maintenance and monitoring to ensure the safety and functionality of the structure for both water resource and climate enthusiasts who frequent the area.
Managed by the US Army, East Sparta remains a popular destination for outdoor recreation in Monroe County, Wisconsin. With its picturesque setting and diverse wildlife, this reservoir offers a unique opportunity for visitors to connect with nature while appreciating the engineering marvel of the dam itself. As climate change continues to impact water resources, the conservation and preservation of sites like East Sparta are essential in ensuring sustainable water management practices for future generations of enthusiasts to enjoy.
Year Completed |
1945 |
Dam Length |
210 |
Dam Height |
12 |
River Or Stream |
Sparta Creek |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
4 |
Hydraulic Height |
11 |
Nid Storage |
61 |
Structural Height |
12 |
Hazard Potential |
Significant |
Foundations |
Rock |
Nid Height |
12 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
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.
Area Campgrounds
| Location | Reservations | Toilets |
|---|---|---|
Pine View Military - Fort McCoy
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Sparta Walk-in Campground
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Leon Valley Campground
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McMullen Park Campground
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McMullen County Park
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East Sparta