Pokegama Lake Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Pokegama Lake, situated in Washburn, Wisconsin, is a local government-owned water reservoir that serves as a primary source of recreation in the region.


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Summary

The dam, primarily constructed of earth with buttress and stone core types, stands at a height of 13.7 feet with a hydraulic height of 1 foot, contributing to the lake's storage capacity of 5,250 acre-feet. Managed by the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources, the dam is regulated, inspected, and enforced by state authorities to ensure public safety and environmental protection.

With a spillway type classified as controlled and a low hazard potential, Pokegama Lake poses minimal risk to the surrounding area. Despite being rated as "Not Rated" in terms of condition assessment, emergency action plans are in place to address any potential hazards, with the most recent revision dating back to February 2021. The lake's risk assessment, graded as "Very High (1)", underscores the importance of diligent risk management measures in safeguarding the community and maintaining the integrity of the reservoir.

In conclusion, Pokegama Lake stands as a vital recreational resource in Washburn, Wisconsin, offering a picturesque setting for outdoor enthusiasts and water sports aficionados. With its well-maintained dam infrastructure and comprehensive risk management protocols, the lake provides a safe and enjoyable environment for visitors while ensuring the sustainable management of its water resources in the face of changing climate conditions.

Dam Length

2000

Dam Height

13.7

River Or Stream

U/N Trib. to Shell Cr.

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Hydraulic Height

1

Nid Storage

5250

Structural Height

13.7

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

14
       
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.