Leigh Lake, located in Oconto, Wisconsin, is a gravity dam that was completed in 1935 for the primary purpose of recreation.
Wind
Humidity
The dam stands at 21 feet in height with a hydraulic height of 13 feet and a structural height of 21 feet. It has a storage capacity of 2,720 acre-feet and a maximum discharge rate of 870 cubic feet per second. The dam spans 130 feet in length and covers a surface area of 231 acres, with a drainage area of 1.5 square miles.
This significant dam on Messenger Creek is under the jurisdiction of the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources (WIDNR) and is regulated, inspected, and enforced by the state agency. The hazard potential of Leigh Lake is considered significant, with a fair condition assessment as of July 2018. The dam poses a moderate risk, with a risk assessment rating of 3. Emergency action plans have been prepared, although the last revision was in 2009, and the effectiveness of these plans meeting guidelines is not specified. Despite these potential risks, Leigh Lake remains a popular destination for water resource and climate enthusiasts seeking recreational opportunities in the area.
Year Completed |
1935 |
Dam Length |
130 |
Dam Height |
21 |
River Or Stream |
MESSENGER CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Gravity |
Surface Area |
231 |
Hydraulic Height |
13 |
Drainage Area |
1.5 |
Nid Storage |
2720 |
Structural Height |
21 |
Hazard Potential |
Significant |
Nid Height |
21 |
Oconto River Near Gillett
|
596cfs |
Oconto River Near Oconto
|
319cfs |
Peshtigo River At Porterfield
|
498cfs |
Peshtigo River At Peshtigo
|
513cfs |
Peshtigo River Near Wabeno
|
226cfs |
Wolf River At Langlade
|
326cfs |