Loon Lake Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Loon Lake in Burnett, Wisconsin, is a picturesque reservoir on Loon Creek, with a primary purpose of recreation.


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Summary

The dam, completed in 1938, is a rockfill structure standing at 13 feet high and 236 feet long, providing a storage capacity of 3800 acre-feet. The reservoir covers an area of 228 acres and has a drainage area of 4.4 square miles, making it a vital water resource in the region.

Despite its low hazard potential and fair condition assessment, the dam is regulated by the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources, with regular inspections and enforcement measures in place to ensure its safety. The spillway is uncontrolled, with a maximum discharge capacity of 92 cubic feet per second. The risk assessment for the dam is moderate, indicating the need for ongoing risk management measures to safeguard the surrounding communities and environment.

For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Loon Lake offers a fascinating case study of a well-maintained recreational reservoir with a rich history dating back to the late 1930s. With its serene surroundings and vital role in the local ecosystem, Loon Lake serves as a reminder of the importance of responsible dam management and the need for continuous monitoring and maintenance in the face of changing climate conditions.

Years Modified

1939 - Other

Year Completed

1938

Dam Length

236

Dam Height

13

River Or Stream

LOON CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Rockfill

Surface Area

228

Hydraulic Height

9.5

Drainage Area

4.4

Nid Storage

3800

Structural Height

13

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

13
       
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.