Lake Three Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Lake Three Dam, located in Ashland, Wisconsin, is a federal-owned structure managed by the USDA Forest Service.


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Summary

Built in 1939, this earth dam serves primarily for recreation purposes, providing a serene and picturesque environment for visitors to enjoy. With a height of 17 feet and a length of 320 feet, the dam has a normal storage capacity of 290 acre-feet and a maximum storage of 550 acre-feet.

Situated on Spring Brook, Lake Three Dam boasts a surface area of 63 acres and a drainage area of 3 square miles. Despite its uncontrolled spillway type and low hazard potential, the dam has a moderate risk assessment rating of 3. The structure underwent its last inspection in August 2020, with a scheduled inspection frequency of 10 years. While the condition assessment is currently not rated, the dam remains a vital part of the local water resource management system in the region.

Overall, Lake Three Dam stands as a testament to sustainable water resource management and climate adaptation efforts in Wisconsin. As a recreational landmark with a rich history dating back to the late 1930s, the dam continues to serve both locals and tourists alike, offering a tranquil retreat amidst the natural beauty of the Ashland County landscape. With its moderate risk profile and federal oversight by the Forest Service, Lake Three Dam remains a symbol of resilience and preservation in the face of evolving environmental challenges.

Year Completed

1939

Dam Length

320

Dam Height

17

River Or Stream

SPRING BROOK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

63

Hydraulic Height

11

Drainage Area

3

Nid Storage

550

Structural Height

18

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

18
       
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.