Kletzsch Park Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Kletzsch Park, located in Glendale, Wisconsin, is a recreational haven with a rich history dating back to its completion in 1936.


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Summary

The park's primary purpose is for recreation and it offers a tranquil escape for water resource and climate enthusiasts. Situated along the Milwaukee River, the park boasts a striking Gravity dam that stands at 8 feet tall and spans 245 feet in length. With a normal storage capacity of 55 acre-feet and a drainage area of 634 acres, Kletzsch Park provides a picturesque setting for outdoor activities such as fishing, hiking, and birdwatching.

The dam at Kletzsch Park is classified as low hazard potential with a fair condition assessment, making it a safe and stable structure for visitors to enjoy. The park's controlled spillway and maximum discharge capacity of 4185 cubic feet per second ensure efficient water management and flood control. Despite its age, Kletzsch Park continues to be well-maintained, with inspections conducted every 10 years to ensure the dam's structural integrity. In addition, the park's risk assessment indicates a very high level of risk management measures in place, highlighting the commitment to safeguarding the surrounding community and natural environment.

As a local government-owned park regulated by the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources, Kletzsch Park serves as a model for sustainable water resource management and climate adaptation strategies. With its scenic beauty, historical significance, and commitment to safety and environmental stewardship, Kletzsch Park is a must-visit destination for those passionate about preserving and enjoying our natural resources in a responsible and engaging way.

Year Completed

1936

Dam Length

245

Dam Height

8

River Or Stream

MILWAUKEE

Primary Dam Type

Gravity

Surface Area

27

Hydraulic Height

4

Drainage Area

634

Nid Storage

105

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.