Godfrey Lake Reservoir Report

Nearby: Lewis Jensen

Last Updated: December 13, 2025

Godfrey Lake, located in Polk County, Wisconsin, is a man-made reservoir constructed in 1967 by the USDA NRCS for the primary purpose of recreation.


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Summary

This earth dam structure on Knapp Creek has a height of 13 feet and a length of 132 feet, creating a storage capacity of 170 acre-feet and a surface area of 26 acres. With a controlled spillway and a low hazard potential, the dam is regulated, inspected, and enforced by the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources, ensuring its safety and compliance with state standards.

Despite its fair condition assessment as of May 2020, Godfrey Lake poses a very high risk, indicating the importance of effective risk management measures to prevent potential hazards. The dam is located in a scenic area near the Detroit District, with a nearby congressman, Sean P. Duffy, representing the region. The lake offers opportunities for outdoor recreation and serves as a vital water resource for the local community, showcasing the intersection of water conservation, climate resilience, and public safety in managing this essential infrastructure.

With a history of continuous state oversight and periodic inspections, Godfrey Lake remains a focal point for water resource and climate enthusiasts interested in sustainable management practices. As a vital component of the local landscape, this dam underscores the significance of balancing recreational needs with environmental protection, highlighting the importance of maintaining and monitoring such structures to ensure their long-term viability in a changing climate.

Year Completed

1967

Dam Length

132

Dam Height

13

River Or Stream

KNAPP CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

26

Hydraulic Height

7

Drainage Area

1

Nid Storage

170

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.