Metz No.1 is a privately-owned earth dam located in Lafayette, Wisconsin, along the TR Wolf Creek. Built in 1974 by the USDA NRCS, this dam serves a primary purpose of recreation and stands at a height of 26 feet with a length of 725 feet. With a storage capacity of 79 acre-feet, the dam plays a vital role in managing water resources in the area, with a low hazard potential and fair condition assessment as of the last inspection in May 2020.

Managed by the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources, Metz No.1 is subject to state regulations, inspections, and enforcement to ensure its safe operation and maintenance. The dam features an uncontrolled spillway and a moderate risk assessment rating, indicating the importance of ongoing risk management measures. Despite its age, Metz No.1 continues to provide valuable recreational opportunities while contributing to the overall water resource management of the region, with a drainage area of 0.4 square miles and a maximum discharge capacity of 110 cubic feet per second.

With its location in a picturesque setting near Gratiot and under the jurisdiction of the WIDNR, Metz No.1 serves as a notable example of sustainable water infrastructure that balances recreational enjoyment with environmental conservation. As climate change impacts water resources and infrastructure resilience, dams like Metz No.1 play a crucial role in adapting to changing conditions and ensuring the long-term availability of water for both human use and ecosystem health in Lafayette, Wisconsin.