Sprague Mather And Goose Pool Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 13, 2025

Located in Necedah, Wisconsin, the Sprague Mather and Goose Pool Dam is a Federal-owned structure managed by the Fish and Wildlife Service.


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Summary

Built in 1940, this Earth-type dam serves primarily as a Fish and Wildlife Pond, with a capacity of 16,425 acre-feet and a drainage area of 28.57 square miles. The dam stands at 20 feet high and spans a length of 33,270 feet, providing valuable habitat for local wildlife and ensuring water resource sustainability in the area.

Despite being classified as having a low hazard potential, the dam is regularly inspected for safety, with the last assessment in July 2018 revealing a fair condition. The structure has undergone modifications over the years to maintain its structural integrity, with notable updates in 1974, 1978, and 2006. Equipped with outlet gates for controlled water release, the dam plays a crucial role in managing water levels and supporting the ecosystem of the Branch of Little Yellow River.

Water resource and climate enthusiasts will appreciate the significant role that the Sprague Mather and Goose Pool Dam plays in protecting and enhancing the natural environment in Juneau County, Wisconsin. As a key component of the Fish and Wildlife Service's operation, this dam exemplifies the importance of sustainable water management practices for the benefit of both wildlife and local communities. With its strategic location and vital functions, this dam stands as a testament to the critical role that water infrastructure plays in preserving our natural resources for future generations.

Years Modified

1974 - Structural, 1978 - Structural, 2006 - Other

Year Completed

1940

Dam Length

33270

Dam Height

16

River Or Stream

BRANCH OF LITTLE YELLOW RIVER

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

2390

Hydraulic Height

16

Drainage Area

28.57

Nid Storage

16425

Structural Height

20

Outlet Gates

Other Controlled, Slide (sluice gate)

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

20
       
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.