Reservoir

MCCASLIN BROOK· Oconto, Wisconsin· Built 1877· Gravity· 15 ft tall
High Hazard Recreation Local Government

Key Takeaway

Reservoir is classified as high hazard in Wisconsin. It was completed in 1877 and is 149 years old. Its primary use is recreation. High hazard means loss of life is likely if the dam fails — it does not indicate the dam's current condition. Learn more.

Physical Details

Dam Height 15 ft (taller than 45% in WI)
Dam Length212 ft
Dam TypeGravity
Max Storage3.5K acre-ft
Normal Storage2.2K acre-ft
Surface Area618 acres
Drainage Area19 sq mi
Max Discharge275 cfs
Year Completed1877 (149 years old)
NID IDWI00163

Safety Information

High Hazard

Loss of human life is likely if the dam fails.

Hazard potential describes downstream consequences of failure, not the dam's current condition. What does this mean?

Emergency Action Plan: Yes
Last Inspection: July 15, 2021
State Regulated: Yes
Regulatory Agency: WIDNR

Ownership

Oconto County

Local Government

Nearby Dams

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the hazard classification of Reservoir?

Reservoir is classified as High Hazard. Loss of human life is likely if the dam fails. This classification refers to the potential downstream consequences of a failure, not the dam's current structural condition.

Who owns and operates Reservoir?

Reservoir is owned by Oconto County (Local Government). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.

When was Reservoir built?

Reservoir was completed in 1877, making it 149 years old. Many U.S. dams were built between the 1930s and 1970s during a period of major infrastructure investment.

What is the primary purpose of Reservoir?

Reservoir serves the following purposes: Recreation. Many dams in the U.S. are multi-purpose, supporting flood control, water supply, recreation, and other uses.

How tall is Reservoir?

Reservoir has a dam height of 15 ft. Dam height is measured from the natural streambed at the downstream toe to the top of the dam, and may differ from the visible height.

When was Reservoir last inspected?

Reservoir was last inspected on July 15, 2021. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.

Data from the National Inventory of Dams (NID) maintained by the US Army Corps of Engineers. Dam conditions may have changed since the last update. This site is not affiliated with USACE. Do not use for emergency planning — contact your local dam safety program.