Lost Creek 5 Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 10, 2025

Lost Creek 5, located in Pepin, Wisconsin, is a crucial flood risk reduction structure managed by the local government.


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Summary

Constructed in 1959 by USDA NRCS, this earth dam stands at a height of 28 feet and spans 470 feet along Lost Creek. With a storage capacity of 107 acre-feet and a drainage area of 2.6 square miles, Lost Creek 5 plays a vital role in safeguarding the surrounding area from potential flooding events.

Maintained by the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources, Lost Creek 5 has a low hazard potential and is assessed to be in fair condition as of May 2020. The dam's primary purpose is flood risk reduction, with additional functions including debris control. Despite its moderate risk assessment, the structure has not undergone recent modifications and is equipped with an uncontrolled spillway. With a maximum discharge capacity of 191 cubic feet per second, Lost Creek 5 continues to serve as a key asset for water resource management in the region.

As part of the Detroit District, Lost Creek 5 is subject to state regulation and inspection, ensuring its compliance with safety standards. The dam's location at S11, T23N, R15W and its association with the Natural Resources Conservation Service highlight its importance in mitigating flood risks and protecting the local community. With a history of effective flood control dating back to its completion over six decades ago, Lost Creek 5 remains a critical infrastructure for climate resilience and water resource management in Wisconsin.

Year Completed

1959

Dam Length

470

Dam Height

28

River Or Stream

Lost Creek

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

2

Hydraulic Height

11

Drainage Area

2.6

Nid Storage

107

Structural Height

28

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

28
       
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.