Upper Wilson Flowage Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 6, 2025

Upper Wilson Flowage, located in Price, Wisconsin, is a Federal-owned fish and wildlife pond on Popple Creek.


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Summary

Constructed in 1940 by the USDA Forest Service, this Earth dam stands at 7 feet high and spans 300 feet in length, with a storage capacity of 200 acre-feet. The flowage serves multiple purposes, including fish and wildlife habitat preservation and recreational activities.

Despite its low hazard potential, Upper Wilson Flowage poses a very high risk due to its structural condition not being rated. With a controlled spillway and a maximum discharge of 50 cubic feet per second, ongoing inspections by the Forest Service are crucial for ensuring public safety and the integrity of the dam. The flowage covers a surface area of 100 acres and serves as an important ecological and recreational resource in the region.

Water resource and climate enthusiasts can appreciate the significance of Upper Wilson Flowage as a vital habitat for fish and wildlife, as well as a popular recreational spot in Phillips, Wisconsin. With its historical roots dating back to 1940 and ongoing management by the Forest Service, this flowage exemplifies the intersection of conservation efforts and public enjoyment in a natural setting. Understanding the engineering and ecological aspects of this Earth dam can deepen one's appreciation for the interconnectedness of water resources and climate resilience in the region.

Year Completed

1940

Dam Length

300

Dam Height

7

River Or Stream

POPPLE CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

100

Hydraulic Height

4

Drainage Area

6

Nid Storage

200

Structural Height

8

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

8
       
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.