Lake Waubesa, also known as Babcock Park Lock and Dam, is a captivating water resource located in McFarland, Wisconsin. This gravity-type dam, completed in 1938, serves the primary purpose of navigation and recreation along the Yahara River. With a structural height of 10 feet and a length of 200 feet, the dam holds a maximum storage capacity of 50,000 acre-feet, covering a surface area of 5,448 acres.

Managed by the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources, Lake Waubesa offers a picturesque setting for outdoor enthusiasts to enjoy various water activities. Despite its fair condition assessment and low hazard potential, the dam poses a very high risk in terms of potential impacts on its surrounding environment. Regular inspections and state enforcement ensure the safety and integrity of this vital water resource. With its serene beauty and historical significance, Lake Waubesa stands as a testament to the importance of preserving our natural waterways in the face of climate change challenges.