Fox Lake Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Fox Lake, located in Dodge County, Wisconsin, is a picturesque water resource managed by the local government for recreation purposes.


°F

°F

mph

Wind

%

Humidity

Summary

This gravity dam, completed in 1838, stands at 16 feet in height and spans 420 feet in length. The lake has a storage capacity of 22,000 acre-feet, with a normal storage level of 14,400 acre-feet, covering a surface area of 2,625 acres and draining a 52-square-mile area.

Maintained by the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources, Fox Lake poses a low hazard potential with a fair condition assessment. Despite its age, the dam has been periodically inspected with the last assessment conducted in September 2019. The risk assessment for the dam is very high, emphasizing the importance of ongoing monitoring and maintenance to ensure the safety of the surrounding community and the sustainability of the water resource in the face of climate challenges.

With its rich history dating back to the 19th century and its vital role in providing recreational opportunities for the local community, Fox Lake remains a symbol of the intersection of water resource management and environmental stewardship. As climate change continues to impact water resources, the conservation and preservation of Fox Lake serve as a testament to the importance of proactive measures in safeguarding our natural assets for future generations.

Years Modified

1931 - Other, 1999 - Other

Year Completed

1838

Dam Length

420

Dam Height

16

River Or Stream

OLD MILL CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Gravity

Surface Area

2625

Hydraulic Height

9

Drainage Area

52

Nid Storage

22000

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.