Spring Lake Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Spring Lake in Jefferson, Wisconsin, is a gravity dam completed in 1844 primarily for recreation purposes.


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Summary

With a height of 17 feet and a hydraulic height of 14 feet, it provides a storage capacity of 560 acre-feet and covers a surface area of 104 acres. The dam, located on the Scuppernong River, has a drainage area of 29.2 square miles and a maximum discharge of 654 cubic feet per second.

Despite being in fair condition as of the last assessment in 2019, Spring Lake has a high hazard potential due to its age and the surrounding risk of inundation. The dam is under state regulation and inspection by the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources, ensuring proper maintenance and enforcement measures are in place. The area offers recreational opportunities and serves as a vital water resource within the region.

Spring Lake's historical significance, coupled with its importance in water management and climate resilience efforts, make it a focal point for enthusiasts interested in sustainable water resource development and conservation practices. While facing challenges associated with its age and hazard potential, the dam continues to be a vital asset for the community, showcasing the intersection of recreation, environmental stewardship, and public safety.

Years Modified

1964 - Other, 2019 - Other

Year Completed

1844

Dam Length

1050

Dam Height

17

River Or Stream

SCUPPERNONG

Primary Dam Type

Gravity

Surface Area

104

Hydraulic Height

14

Drainage Area

29.2

Nid Storage

560

Structural Height

17

Hazard Potential

High

Nid Height

17
       
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.