Skunk Creek Reservoir Report
Nearby: Kert Creek 6 Kert Creek 3
Last Updated: December 13, 2025
Skunk Creek, located in Wood County, Wisconsin, is a vital water resource with a primary purpose of recreation.
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Summary
The dam, completed in 1986, is an earth structure with a height of 7.2 feet and a hydraulic height of 4.2 feet. With a storage capacity of 237 acre-feet and a maximum discharge of 496 cubic feet per second, the dam serves as a controlled spillway with a width of 80 feet. Despite its low hazard potential and fair condition assessment, the risk assessment for Skunk Creek is considered very high, emphasizing the importance of proper management and maintenance.
The creek offers a surface area of 12 acres and drains an area of 1 square mile. Its location within the Detroit District and the state-regulated jurisdiction of Wisconsin ensures that it undergoes regular inspections and enforcement to uphold safety standards. While the associated structures remain minimal, the recreational value of Skunk Creek is evident through its use for leisure activities. However, with a risk management rating of Very High (1), there is a pressing need for ongoing monitoring and measures to mitigate potential hazards and ensure the creek's sustainability for future generations.
Skunk Creek serves as a valuable asset for water resource and climate enthusiasts, offering a glimpse into the delicate balance between recreation and risk management. As a locally owned dam with state oversight, it stands as a testament to the importance of responsible stewardship in preserving our natural environment. With its historical significance dating back to the 1980s and its continued relevance in today's water management landscape, Skunk Creek serves as a reminder of the interconnectedness between human activities and the broader ecosystem. By prioritizing safety measures and conservation efforts, we can ensure that Skunk Creek remains a cherished resource for generations to come.
Year Completed |
1986 |
Dam Length |
1800 |
Dam Height |
7.2 |
River Or Stream |
SKUNK CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
12 |
Hydraulic Height |
4.2 |
Drainage Area |
1 |
Nid Storage |
237 |
Structural Height |
7.2 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Nid Height |
7 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Yellow River At Babcock
|
44cfs |
Wisconsin River At Wisconsin Rapids
|
1960cfs |
Black River At Neillsville
|
193cfs |
Tenmile Creek Near Nekoosa
|
27cfs |
Yellow River At Necedah
|
52cfs |
Black River Ds St Hwy 54 @ Black River Falls
|
514cfs |
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.
Area Campgrounds
| Location | Reservations | Toilets |
|---|---|---|
Dexter Park Campground
|
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Sherwood Park
|
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Sherwood Park and Campground
|
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North Wood County Park Campground
|
Skunk Creek