Ball Park Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Located in Waterloo, Wisconsin, the Ball Park dam serves as a vital recreational resource along the Maunesha River.


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Summary

Constructed in 1850, this gravity dam stands at a height of 11.9 feet and stretches 93 feet in length, providing a storage capacity of 88 acre-feet. With a maximum discharge of 2605 cfs and a spillway width of 104 feet, the dam presents a significant hazard potential, rated as very high.

Managed by the local government, the Ball Park dam is regulated by the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources (WIDNR), ensuring state permitting, inspection, and enforcement. Despite not being rated for condition assessment, the dam is recognized for its historical significance and its importance in providing recreational opportunities for the community. With a risk assessment indicating very high risk, it is crucial for ongoing risk management measures to be implemented to safeguard both the dam structure and the surrounding area.

Water resource and climate enthusiasts will appreciate the unique features of the Ball Park dam, which not only provides recreational benefits but also plays a critical role in flood control and water management along the Maunesha River. As a significant part of Wisconsin's water infrastructure, the dam's history and engineering characteristics make it a fascinating subject for those interested in the intersection of human development and natural resources. Ongoing monitoring and maintenance efforts will be essential to ensure the long-term sustainability and safety of this important structure.

Years Modified

1954 - Other

Year Completed

1850

Dam Length

93

Dam Height

11.9

River Or Stream

MAUNESHA RIVER

Primary Dam Type

Gravity

Surface Area

8

Hydraulic Height

6

Drainage Area

93

Nid Storage

88

Structural Height

11.9

Hazard Potential

Significant

Nid Height

12
       
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.