Arkdale Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 14, 2025

Arkdale, located in Adams County, Wisconsin, is home to a gravity dam completed in 1860 primarily for recreational purposes.


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Summary

The dam stands at 16 feet tall with a hydraulic height of 7 feet, and has a storage capacity of 330 acre-feet. With a surface area of 55 acres and a drainage area of 142 square miles, the dam serves as a vital water resource in the region.

Despite its age, the dam in Arkdale remains in fair condition with a low hazard potential. Regular inspections have been conducted, with the last assessment done in May 2020. The risk assessment for the dam is categorized as very high, indicating the need for effective risk management measures. The surrounding area, known for its natural beauty and outdoor recreational activities, relies on the dam for water storage and flood control, making it a crucial infrastructure for the community. Climate enthusiasts and water resource experts will find Arkdale's dam an intriguing case study in sustainable water management and infrastructure maintenance.

Years Modified

1966 - Other

Year Completed

1860

Dam Length

500

Dam Height

16

Primary Dam Type

Gravity

Surface Area

55

Hydraulic Height

7

Drainage Area

142

Nid Storage

330

Structural Height

16

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

16
       
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.