Crex Meadows Refuge Extension Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

The Crex Meadows Refuge Extension, located in Burnett, Wisconsin, is a state-owned water resource with a primary purpose that goes beyond typical dam structures.


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Summary

Completed in 1974, this Earth-type dam stands at 10 feet high and spans 10,500 feet in length, providing storage capacity of 370 acre-feet of water. Despite its low hazard potential, the dam has not been rated for its condition, with the last inspection conducted in October 2011.

The dam's location along the TR-Hay Creek tributary and its adjacency to the Detroit District of the US Army Corps of Engineers make it a significant site for water management and conservation efforts in the region. With a normal storage capacity of 150 acre-feet and a surface area of 617 acres, the Crex Meadows Refuge Extension plays a vital role in maintaining water levels and supporting local wildlife habitats. Climate and water resource enthusiasts can appreciate the unique design and purpose of this dam, which serves as more than just a flood control measure.

As a regulated state water resource, the Crex Meadows Refuge Extension falls under the jurisdiction of the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources (WIDNR), which oversees its permitting, inspection, and enforcement processes. With a designated emergency action plan frequency of 10 years and a lack of recent condition assessments, there is room for further evaluation and risk management to ensure the long-term sustainability and effectiveness of this crucial water infrastructure in the state.

Year Completed

1974

Dam Length

10500

Dam Height

10

River Or Stream

TR-HAY CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

617

Hydraulic Height

3

Nid Storage

370

Structural Height

10

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

10
       
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.