Fawn Lake Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Fawn Lake in Ashland, Wisconsin, is a privately owned water resource regulated by the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources.


°F

°F

mph

Wind

%

Humidity

Summary

Built in 1980, this dam stands at a height of 15.8 feet and has a maximum storage capacity of 144 acre-feet. The lake covers a surface area of 14 acres and drains a small watershed of 0.14 square miles into an unnamed creek.

With a spillway type classified as "Uncontrolled" and a hazard potential rated as "High," Fawn Lake poses moderate risks that are currently being managed through regular inspections every two years. Despite its condition assessment being labeled as "Not Rated," the dam has not undergone any modifications since its construction. Although the emergency action plan status and inundation maps preparation are unknown, the risk management measures in place aim to mitigate potential dangers associated with the dam.

For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Fawn Lake presents an intriguing case study of a privately owned dam in Wisconsin with significant storage capacity and drainage area. The lake's moderate risk level and high hazard potential underscore the importance of regular inspections and risk management measures to ensure the safety and integrity of the structure. As a critical water resource in the region, Fawn Lake serves as a focal point for understanding the intersection of regulatory oversight, risk assessment, and emergency preparedness in managing dam infrastructure.

Year Completed

1980

Dam Length

200

Dam Height

15.8

River Or Stream

Unnamed Creek

Surface Area

14

Hydraulic Height

11.8

Drainage Area

0.14

Nid Storage

144

Structural Height

15.8

Hazard Potential

High

Nid Height

16
       
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.