Squirrel Lake Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 8, 2025

Squirrel Lake, located in Oneida County, Wisconsin, is a gravity dam with a primary purpose of hydroelectric power generation.


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Summary

Completed in 1908, this dam stands at a height of 7 feet and has a hydraulic height of 4.4 feet. With a storage capacity of 23,140 acre-feet and a drainage area of 15.2 square miles, Squirrel Lake plays a crucial role in flood risk reduction and hydroelectric power production for the region.

Managed by the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission, Squirrel Lake Dam has a low hazard potential and is subject to regular inspections. The dam features a controlled spillway with a width of 10 feet and is equipped with a slide (sluice gate) outlet gate. Despite its age, the dam's condition assessment is not available, but emergency action plans have been prepared and updated to ensure public safety in case of unexpected events.

Water resource and climate enthusiasts will appreciate the historical significance and engineering marvel of Squirrel Lake Dam. As a vital component of the region's water management infrastructure, this dam continues to contribute to flood control, water supply, and renewable energy generation. Its location, design, and operational features make it a fascinating subject for those interested in the intersection of water resources, climate resilience, and sustainable development.

Year Completed

1908

Dam Length

80

Dam Height

7

River Or Stream

Squirrel

Primary Dam Type

Gravity

Hydraulic Height

4.4

Drainage Area

15.2

Nid Storage

23140

Outlet Gates

Slide (sluice gate) - 1

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

7
       
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.