Little Tamarack Creek - Upper Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Little Tamarack Creek - Upper, located in Vilas, Wisconsin, is a state-regulated dam with a primary purpose of recreation.


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Summary

Built in 1936, this earth dam stands at 7 feet in height and has a storage capacity of 150 acre-feet, with a normal storage level of 60 acre-feet. The dam, which spans a surface area of 9 acres and drains a 17-acre watershed, serves multiple purposes including fire protection, stock, and small fish pond management.

Despite being classified as low hazard potential, the condition of Little Tamarack Creek - Upper has not been rated, with the last inspection conducted in 1993. The dam has not been assessed for emergency action plans or risk management measures, raising concerns about its resilience in the face of climate change impacts. With its picturesque location and recreational value, it is essential for state agencies like WIDNR to prioritize regular inspections, maintenance, and potential upgrades to ensure the safety and sustainability of this vital water resource for the community and the environment.

Years Modified

1937 - Other

Year Completed

1936

Dam Height

7

River Or Stream

LITTLE TAMARACK CR

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

9

Hydraulic Height

5

Drainage Area

17

Nid Storage

150

Structural Height

7

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

7
       
Seasonal Comparison

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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.