Whitewater Lake Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Whitewater Lake, located in Walworth, Wisconsin, is a picturesque water resource managed by the local government for recreational purposes.


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Summary

Constructed in 1925, this gravity dam stands at 11 feet tall and spans 200 feet in length, with a storage capacity of 4,300 acre-feet. The lake covers a surface area of 640 acres and drains an area of 70 square miles, serving as the inlet to Rice Lake.

Despite being classified as having a low hazard potential and fair condition assessment, Whitewater Lake is subject to periodic inspections and maintenance to ensure its structural integrity. The dam's spillway type is uncontrolled, with a maximum discharge capacity of 200 cubic feet per second. With a moderate risk assessment rating of 3, the lake is regulated by the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources, ensuring compliance with state permitting, inspection, and enforcement protocols.

Enthusiasts of water resources and climate will appreciate Whitewater Lake's historical significance, scenic beauty, and role in providing recreational opportunities for the local community. As a well-maintained gravity dam with a long-standing presence in the area, Whitewater Lake continues to be a valuable asset for both residents and visitors seeking to enjoy its tranquil waters and natural surroundings while remaining mindful of its risk management measures and regulatory oversight.

Years Modified

1947 - Other

Year Completed

1925

Dam Length

200

Dam Height

11

River Or Stream

Inlet to Rice Lake

Primary Dam Type

Gravity

Surface Area

640

Hydraulic Height

7

Drainage Area

70

Nid Storage

4300

Structural Height

11

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

11
       
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.