Coon Creek, located in Eau Claire, Wisconsin, is a recreational dam with a primary purpose of providing outdoor enjoyment for visitors. Completed in 1964, this Earth-type dam stands at a height of 28 feet and spans 700 feet in length. With a storage capacity of 1,200 acre-feet and a normal storage level of 563 acre-feet, Coon Creek offers a surface area of 75 acres and serves a drainage area of 45 square miles.

Despite its low hazard potential and fair condition assessment, Coon Creek poses a very high risk due to its location and potential impact in case of a failure. Managed by the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources, the dam is subject to regular inspections, with the last assessment conducted in May 2020. While the dam meets state regulatory standards for permitting, inspection, and enforcement, there are no emergency action plans in place as of the latest data update in March 2021.

For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Coon Creek presents an opportunity to explore the intersection of human infrastructure and natural ecosystems. With its controlled spillway and recreational focus, this dam serves as a reminder of the importance of balancing environmental stewardship with public enjoyment in managing water resources. As discussions around climate change and water management continue to evolve, Coon Creek serves as a case study for sustainable dam operation and risk assessment in an ever-changing world.