USACE Chicago District water management activities at Lake Winnebago

U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, Chicago District
Story by Emily Helton

Date: 04.16.2026
Posted: 04.16.2026 14:55
News ID: 562892
USACE Chicago District water management activities at Lake Winnebago

Effective April 16, due to recent above-average rainfall and upstream flooding, the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE) Chicago District has coordinated with Neenah Paper to open the last two needle gates at Neenah Dam on the Fox River. All gates at Menasha Dam and Neenah Dam are open allowing maximum outflow from Lake Winnebago. This action was necessary to manage the lake's water level according to established procedures in the water control manual. USACE’s nine dams along the lower Fox River are operating as designed, and this action is a planned and controlled operational adjustment. USACE is continually monitoring the dams to ensure they continue to function as intended.

Due to significant upstream flows, residents along the Lake Winnebago shoreline and the Lower Fox River should anticipate a rise in water levels. USACE is coordinating closely with local partners and are available to provide assistance to the State of Wisconsin as requested.

USACE is committed to keeping the public informed. For the most current information, please monitor the following resources:

For general flood preparedness, visithttps://www.google.com/url?q=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ready.gov%2Ffloods.

Contact Chicago District Public Affairs Office 312-846-5330 https://www.google.com/url?q=mailto%3Achicagodistrict.pao%40usace.army.mil