Crex Meadows Phantom Lake Dev Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Crex Meadows Phantom Lake Dev, also known as Structure 14, is a state-owned recreational dam located in Burnett, Wisconsin.


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Summary

Completed in 1962, this earth dam stands at a height of 7.8 feet and has a hydraulic height of 4.3 feet, with a maximum storage capacity of 15,000 acre-feet and a normal storage of 3,700 acre-feet. The dam covers a surface area of 2,200 acres and has a drainage area of 5.3 square miles.

With a controlled spillway type and a hazard potential rated as high, the dam at Crex Meadows Phantom Lake Dev is subject to regular inspections to ensure its fair condition and overall safety. The last inspection was conducted in July 2019, with a frequency of every two years. Despite its high risk assessment of very high (1), the dam is in operation for recreational purposes and is regulated by the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources.

Located in a picturesque setting within the Detroit District, Crex Meadows Phantom Lake Dev serves as a vital water resource for the surrounding area, offering both recreational opportunities and flood control measures. Enthusiasts of water resources and climate management will find this structure to be a fascinating example of how dams play a crucial role in maintaining the balance of ecosystems while providing valuable amenities for the community.

Year Completed

1962

Dam Length

50

Dam Height

7.8

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

2200

Hydraulic Height

4.3

Drainage Area

5.3

Nid Storage

15000

Structural Height

7.8

Hazard Potential

High

Nid Height

8
       
Seasonal Comparison

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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.