Bakkens Pond Reservoir Report
Nearby: Long Lake Flowage Wla Wright
Last Updated: December 5, 2025
Bakkens Pond, located in Sauk County, Wisconsin, is a state-regulated water resource with a primary purpose categorized as "Other".
°F
°F
mph
Wind
%
Humidity
Summary
This Earth dam was completed in 1968 and stands at a height of 10 feet, with a hydraulic height of 4 feet. The pond has a storage capacity of 300 acre-feet and a normal storage level of 60 acre-feet, covering a surface area of 60 acres with a drainage area of 16.3 square miles.
The dam's low hazard potential and fair condition assessment indicate a moderate risk level, prompting a moderate risk assessment score of 3. The pond serves as an inlet to Long Lake Flowage and is situated in the St. Paul District, with state permitting, inspection, and enforcement activities overseen by the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources (WIDNR). Despite its uncontrolled spillway type, Bakkens Pond remains a vital water resource in the region, contributing to the local ecosystem and supporting various wildlife management efforts.
Water resource and climate enthusiasts interested in Bakkens Pond can appreciate its ecological significance, as well as the regulatory framework in place to ensure its safe operation and maintenance. With a history dating back to the late 1960s, this Earth dam continues to provide valuable water storage and management capabilities, showcasing the importance of sustainable water resource practices in the face of changing climate patterns. As a key feature in the Wisconsin landscape, Bakkens Pond stands as a testament to the ongoing efforts to balance water resource utilization with environmental conservation.
Year Completed |
1968 |
Dam Length |
1700 |
Dam Height |
10 |
River Or Stream |
INLET TO LONG LAKE FLOWAGE |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
60 |
Hydraulic Height |
4 |
Drainage Area |
16.3 |
Nid Storage |
300 |
Structural Height |
10 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Nid Height |
10 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Dam Data Reference
Condition Assessment
SatisfactoryNo 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
HighDams 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.
Tower Hill State Park
Tower Hill State Park Campground
Avoca Lakeside City Campground
Twin valley Campground
Governor Dodge State Park
Governor Dodge State Park Campground
Bakkens Pond
Bakkens Pond -- Launch
Lone Rock
To The Confluence Of The Green And Wisconsin Rivers