Willow Springs Lake Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Willow Springs Lake, also known as Laitsch, is a gravity dam located in Saylesville, Wisconsin.


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Summary

Built in 1966 by the USDA NRCS, this recreational lake spans 60 acres with a maximum storage capacity of 590 acre-feet. The dam stands at a height of 20 feet, providing a hydraulic height of 12 feet and a structural height of 20 feet. The lake is fed by Spring Brook and serves as a popular spot for water resource and climate enthusiasts to enjoy outdoor activities.

Managed by the WIDNR, Willow Springs Lake is regulated and permitted by the state of Wisconsin for inspection, enforcement, and maintenance. The dam has a low hazard potential and is currently in fair condition, with the last inspection conducted in May 2020. Despite its moderate risk assessment, the lake continues to attract visitors for recreational purposes, offering a serene environment for fishing, boating, and hiking. With its picturesque surroundings and sustainable management practices, Willow Springs Lake remains a cherished destination for nature lovers in the Waukesha County area.

Year Completed

1966

Dam Length

1940

Dam Height

20

River Or Stream

SPRING BROOK

Primary Dam Type

Gravity

Surface Area

60

Hydraulic Height

12

Drainage Area

3.1

Nid Storage

590

Structural Height

20

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

20
       
Seasonal Comparison

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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.