Slim Creek

SLIM CREEK· Washburn, Wisconsin· Built 1936· Gravity· 15 ft tall
High Hazard Recreation Local Government

Key Takeaway

Slim Creek is classified as high hazard in Wisconsin. It was completed in 1936 and is 90 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 Length120 ft
Dam TypeGravity
Max Storage850 acre-ft
Normal Storage430 acre-ft
Surface Area101 acres
Drainage Area17 sq mi
Max Discharge700 cfs
Year Completed1936 (90 years old)
NID IDWI00216

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: June 2, 2022
State Regulated: Yes
Regulatory Agency: WIDNR

Ownership

Washburn County

Local Government

Nearby Dams

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the hazard classification of Slim Creek?

Slim Creek 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 Slim Creek?

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

When was Slim Creek built?

Slim Creek was completed in 1936, making it 90 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 Slim Creek?

Slim Creek 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 Slim Creek?

Slim Creek 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 Slim Creek last inspected?

Slim Creek was last inspected on June 2, 2022. 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.