Lake Shangri La Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Lake Shangri La, located in Kenosha, Wisconsin, is a picturesque reservoir with a primary purpose of recreation.


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Summary

Built in 1927, this earth dam stands at a height of 16 feet and has a hydraulic height of 12 feet, providing a maximum storage capacity of 1200 acre-feet. The dam spans 200 feet in length and covers a surface area of 172 acres, making it a popular spot for water enthusiasts and nature lovers alike.

Despite its fair condition assessment and high hazard potential, Lake Shangri La is regulated and inspected by the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources to ensure public safety. With a moderate risk rating, emergency preparedness measures are in place, although specific details on emergency action plans and risk management measures are not provided in the data. The outlet of Lake Shangri La feeds into a river or stream, contributing to the local water ecosystem and providing a vital resource for the surrounding area.

Overall, Lake Shangri La serves as a vital water resource for the community, offering a scenic backdrop for recreational activities while being subject to regulatory oversight to maintain its structural integrity and ensure public safety. As climate change continues to impact water resources, the preservation and management of dams like Lake Shangri La will be crucial in sustaining a healthy environment for future generations of water and climate enthusiasts.

Year Completed

1927

Dam Length

200

Dam Height

16

River Or Stream

OUTLET OF LAKE SHANGRI LA

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

172

Hydraulic Height

12

Drainage Area

1

Nid Storage

1200

Structural Height

16

Hazard Potential

High

Nid Height

16
       
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.