Skinaway Lake Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Skinaway Lake, located in Polk, Wisconsin, is a picturesque man-made reservoir that serves as a popular recreation spot for water resource and climate enthusiasts.


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Summary

Managed by the local government and designed by the USDA NRCS, this earth dam structure was completed in 1967 and has a primary purpose of recreation. With a dam height of 12 feet and a storage capacity of 690 acre-feet, the lake covers an area of 83 acres and is fed by the TR-North Branch Beaver Brook.

Despite its age, Skinaway Lake has been well-maintained, with a low hazard potential and a fair condition assessment as of May 2020. The dam is equipped with a controlled spillway and has a maximum discharge capacity of 70 cubic feet per second. The lake's risk assessment is very high, indicating the importance of ongoing monitoring and management measures to ensure the safety and longevity of this valuable water resource.

Overall, Skinaway Lake offers a serene and recreational escape in the heart of Wisconsin, attracting outdoor enthusiasts with its tranquil waters and natural surroundings. With its historical significance and ongoing regulatory oversight by the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources, this lake continues to be a cherished destination for those seeking to connect with nature and enjoy the beauty of the outdoors while also serving as a vital water resource for the local community.

Year Completed

1967

Dam Length

60

Dam Height

12

River Or Stream

TR-North Branch Beaver Brook

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

83

Hydraulic Height

8

Drainage Area

0.7

Nid Storage

690

Structural Height

12

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

12
       
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.