West Okoboji Lake At Lakeside Lab Near Milford Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 7, 2025

West Okoboji Lake is located near Milford, IA in Iowa and is one of the few natural lakes in the state.


°F

°F

mph

Wind

%

Humidity

Summary

Lakeside Lab, which is situated on the lake, is a research facility that studies the ecology and hydrology of the area. The lake has a history of being an important recreational spot for tourism in the region. The hydrology of the lake is affected by both surface water flow and snowpack. The lake receives water from the Little Sioux River and its tributaries. The snowpack in the region contributes to the water supply of the lake during the spring and summer months. The lake is also used for agricultural purposes, with farms near the lake using the water for irrigation. Recreational activities such as boating, fishing, and swimming are popular on the lake.

Reservoir Details

Gage Height, Ft 24hr Change 0.28%
Percent of Normal 93%
Minimum 2.61 ft
2012-12-14
Maximum 6.62 ft
2018-07-06
Average 4 ft
       
Seasonal Comparison
Temperature, Water, °C Levels
Gage Height, Ft Levels

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.