Fountain Lake Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 6, 2025

Fountain Lake, located in Portage, Wisconsin, is a state-regulated reservoir on Emmons Creek with a primary purpose of recreation.


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Summary

This gravity dam, completed in 1938, has a structural height of 8 feet and a length of 50 feet, providing a storage capacity of 120 acre-feet. With a surface area of 16 acres and a drainage area of 2 square miles, Fountain Lake is a popular destination for water resource and climate enthusiasts to enjoy outdoor activities.

Despite being classified as a low hazard potential structure with a moderate risk assessment, Fountain Lake has not been rated for its condition assessment as of the last inspection in 2011. The emergency action plan (EAP) for the dam was last revised in 2015, although details on its compliance with guidelines and preparedness for potential emergencies are not provided. The reservoir's spillway is uncontrolled, with a width of 5 feet, and the dam has not been modified in recent years, indicating a stable and maintained structure for recreational use.

With its scenic location and recreational opportunities, Fountain Lake offers a peaceful retreat for visitors to enjoy water activities and explore the natural beauty of the surrounding area. As a state-regulated dam with a history dating back to the late 1930s, it serves as a valuable resource for the community and a picturesque setting for water resource and climate enthusiasts to appreciate and protect.

Year Completed

1938

Dam Length

50

Dam Height

8

River Or Stream

EMMONS CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Gravity

Surface Area

16

Hydraulic Height

8

Drainage Area

2

Nid Storage

120

Structural Height

8

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

8
       
Seasonal Comparison

Weather Forecast

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.