Udeys Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 6, 2025

Udeys, located in Columbia, Wisconsin, is a gravity dam on the Crawfish River completed in 1917 primarily for recreation purposes.


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Summary

With a structural height of 14 feet and a hydraulic height of 10 feet, Udeys has a storage capacity of 185 acre-feet and a surface area of 26 acres. The dam's spillway type is controlled, with a maximum discharge capacity of 4,250 cubic feet per second.

Despite its satisfactory condition assessment, Udeys has a high hazard potential, prompting a biennial inspection frequency. The risk assessment for the dam is classified as very high, emphasizing the importance of proper risk management measures. The dam is regulated by the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources (WIDNR) and has state jurisdiction, permitting, inspection, and enforcement in place.

Udeys serves as a key recreational spot in the area, attracting visitors to enjoy its scenic beauty and water-based activities. The dam's location in proximity to the city of Columbus makes it easily accessible for residents and visitors alike. With its historical significance and vital role in the local water resource management, Udeys stands as a testament to the importance of sustainable infrastructure development in mitigating climate-related risks.

Years Modified

2011 - Other

Year Completed

1917

Dam Length

350

Dam Height

14

River Or Stream

CRAWFISH

Primary Dam Type

Gravity

Surface Area

26

Hydraulic Height

10

Drainage Area

164

Nid Storage

185

Structural Height

14

Hazard Potential

High

Nid Height

14
       
Seasonal Comparison

Weather Forecast

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.