Willis Lake Reservoir Report
Nearby: Lake Elysian Janesville Wildlife
Last Updated: December 6, 2025
Willis Lake, located in Waseca, Minnesota, is a state-regulated reservoir managed by the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources for fish and wildlife conservation.
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Summary
With a storage capacity of 500 acre-feet and a surface area of 90 acres, this reservoir serves as a crucial habitat for local flora and fauna. The dam at Willis Lake, standing at 9 feet tall with a hydraulic height of 2.5 feet, helps maintain water levels for optimal wildlife management.
Despite its low hazard potential and satisfactory condition assessment, Willis Lake is subject to regular inspections and enforcement by state authorities to ensure its structural integrity and operational efficiency. The primary purpose of this reservoir as a fish and wildlife pond highlights its importance in supporting the local ecosystem and promoting biodiversity in the area. As climate change continues to impact water resources, the conservation efforts at Willis Lake play a significant role in preserving critical habitats and maintaining ecological balance in the region.
Water resource and climate enthusiasts can appreciate Willis Lake as a valuable asset in environmental conservation efforts, providing a sanctuary for wildlife and serving as a model for sustainable reservoir management. As a state-regulated water body with a focus on fish and wildlife habitat preservation, Willis Lake exemplifies the intersection of water resource management and ecological stewardship. Its location in the picturesque surroundings of Elysian, Minnesota, offers a serene backdrop for studying the interconnectedness of water resources, climate change, and biodiversity conservation.
Dam Height |
9 |
River Or Stream |
MAYHEW CREEK-TR |
Primary Dam Type |
Other |
Surface Area |
90 |
Hydraulic Height |
2.5 |
Drainage Area |
0.33 |
Nid Storage |
500 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Unlisted/Unknown |
Nid Height |
9 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Minnesota River At Mankato
|
2870cfs |
Le Sueur River Near Rapidan
|
179cfs |
Blue Earth River Near Rapidan
|
328cfs |
Straight River Near Faribault
|
83cfs |
Watonwan River Near Garden City
|
82cfs |
High Island Creek Near Henderson
|
5cfs |
Dam Data Reference
Condition Assessment
SatisfactoryNo 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
HighDams 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.
Area Campgrounds
| Location | Reservations | Toilets |
|---|---|---|
Bray County Park
|
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Bray County Park Campground
|
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Scotts Campground
|
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Sakatah Lake State Park
|
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Sakatah Lake State Park Campground
|
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Lake Washington Park
|
Willis Lake
Roots Beach Road 8, Elysian