Meadow Valley Spillway 5, located in Juneau, Wisconsin, is a state-regulated dam with a primary purpose of recreation. Built in 1938, this earth dam stands at a height of 8 feet and has a hydraulic height of 5 feet. With a normal storage capacity of 700 acre-feet and a maximum discharge of 470 cubic feet per second, this dam plays a crucial role in managing the Beaver Creek Drainage Ditch.

Despite its low hazard potential, Meadow Valley Spillway 5 is classified as having a very high risk due to its outdated design and lack of recent condition assessments. The dam has not been inspected since 2011, raising concerns about its structural integrity and the safety of downstream communities. While the dam has a controlled spillway, the absence of outlet gates and associated structures may pose challenges in effectively managing water levels during heavy rainfall or flooding events.

As water resource and climate enthusiasts, it is essential to advocate for regular inspections, maintenance, and risk management measures for Meadow Valley Spillway 5 to ensure the safety and sustainability of this vital infrastructure. Increased collaboration between state and federal agencies, as well as updated emergency action plans, can help mitigate the risks associated with this aging dam and protect the surrounding environment and communities from potential harm.