Pickerel Lake Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 8, 2025

Pickerel Lake in Oconto, Wisconsin, is a picturesque water resource managed by the local government for recreational purposes.


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Summary

This Earth dam, completed in 1960, stands at 10.3 feet high and holds a maximum storage capacity of 1750 acre-feet, with a normal storage level of 517 acre-feet. The lake covers a surface area of 220 acres and is fed by Pickerel Creek, offering a serene setting for outdoor enthusiasts to enjoy.

Despite its low hazard potential and fair condition assessment, Pickerel Lake is subject to regular state regulation, permitting, inspection, and enforcement by the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources. The controlled spillway design ensures safe water discharge with a maximum capacity of 208 cubic feet per second. The risk assessment for the dam indicates a very high risk level, prompting ongoing monitoring and potential risk management measures to safeguard the surrounding community and environment.

Visitors to Pickerel Lake can appreciate the beauty of this water resource while recognizing the importance of responsible management and maintenance to prevent potential hazards and ensure continued enjoyment for future generations. With its tranquil waters and scenic surroundings, Pickerel Lake remains a valuable asset for recreation and conservation efforts in the region.

Year Completed

1960

Dam Length

300

Dam Height

10.3

River Or Stream

Pickerel Creek

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

220

Hydraulic Height

5.3

Drainage Area

1.9

Nid Storage

1750

Structural Height

10.3

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

10
       
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.