If you’ve spent any time boating, ice fishing, or relaxing along the shoreline around Lake Winnebago, you’ve probably noticed how much water levels can change with the seasons. You might wonder—why exactly are water levels on Lake Winnebago lowered in winter?
It all comes down to carefully balancing seasonal flood risks, ice conditions, and overall lake health.
Who Manages Lake Winnebago’s Water Levels?
The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers – Chicago District manages Lake Winnebago’s water levels from their local Appleton office at the Lake Michigan Project Office. They regulate water outflow through dams located in Menasha and Neenah, guided by the Federal Marshall Order of 1886—originally established to help reduce flooding around the lake and protect shoreline communities. (Quick note: The Army Corps directly operates the Menasha Dam, while the Neenah Dam is privately owned. Both work closely together for effective water-level management.)
Lake Winnebago’s dams have shaped the region’s water management for over a century. Learn more about their history, how they’ve influenced water levels, and their impact on the watershed in our deep dive: Lake Winnebago History: Dams & Their Impact.
Menasha Dam on Lake Winnebago
An aerial view showing the spillway and tainter gates of the Menasha Dam, operated by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers. The gates control water flow out of Lake Winnebago, helping manage seasonal flooding, ice conditions, and protecting recreation and shoreline structures. (Photo Credit: U.S. Army Corps of Engineers)
Why Winter Water Levels Matter for Lake Winnebago
Each winter, the Army Corps draws down the water level of Lake Winnebago. Why?
With over 6,000 square miles of land across the Fox-Wolf Watershed draining into Lake Winnebago, seasonal snow and ice melt—combined with spring rains—creates an immense surge of water. Drawing down water levels creates the much-needed room to significantly reduce flood risks in spring.
Winter drawdowns also help prevent destructive ice shoves. These massive movements of lake ice can damage docks, boat launches, shoreline properties, and dams, causing costly repairs and safety hazards for lakeshore residents and infrastructure.
Ice Shoves on Lake Winnebago – 2017 Event
A massive ice shove event in 2017 sent towering blocks of ice onto roads and shorelines near Lake Winnebago. These ice formations, pushed by strong winds and shifting lake ice, can cause significant damage to infrastructure and properties. Lowering winter water levels helps minimize the impact of ice shove events. (Photo credit: Matt W., 2017 Ice Shoves.)
Protecting Lake Winnebago: Recreation & Lake Health
Lake Winnebago isn’t just important ecologically—it’s also a central hub for recreation in Wisconsin. Thousands of people enjoy boating, swimming, and fishing every summer, along with ice fishing, skating, and snowmobiling throughout winter. Effective water-level management helps ensure a safe, enjoyable lake experience year-round, protecting fish habitats, recreational access, and shoreline conditions.
Poygan Marsh Flooding
Flooding at Poygan Marsh, likely from 2011. Managing Lake Winnebago’s seasonal water levels is crucial for reducing flood risks in surrounding ecosystems and communities. (Photo credit: Unknown, possibly 2011 Poygan Marsh flood.)
Fox-Wolf Watershed Alliance’s Role
The Fox-Wolf Watershed Alliance does not manage Lake Winnebago’s water levels or operate dams—that’s solely the responsibility of the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers. At Fox-Wolf, our mission is to recommend and support practices that protect water quality, habitat health, and conservation throughout the entire Fox-Wolf Watershed.
Stay Connected for More!
Water levels impact everything from fish habitats to your favorite outdoor activities. Stay tuned to our Basin Blog for more upcoming posts highlighting how water level management decisions shape Lake Winnebago’s future—and your next lake adventure.
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