Algonquin Lake Dam

Kurtz Creek· Barry, Michigan· Built 1927· Earth· 14 ft tall
Significant Hazard Recreation Private

Key Takeaway

Algonquin Lake Dam is classified as significant hazard in Michigan. It was completed in 1927 and is 99 years old. Its primary use is recreation. Significant hazard means failure could cause economic or environmental damage. Learn more.

Physical Details

Dam Height 14 ft (taller than 44.8% in MI)
Dam Length300 ft
Dam TypeEarth
Max Storage1.1K acre-ft
Normal Storage580 acre-ft
Surface Area271 acres
Drainage Area14 sq mi
Max Discharge334 cfs
Year Completed1927 (99 years old)
NID IDMI00009

Safety Information

Significant Hazard

No probable loss of human life, but can cause economic loss, environmental damage, or disruption of lifeline facilities.

Hazard potential describes downstream consequences of failure, not the dam's current condition. What does this mean?

Emergency Action Plan: Yes
Last Inspection: December 7, 2018
State Regulated: Yes
Regulatory Agency: MICHIGAN DEGLE

Ownership

Algonquin Lake Association

Private

Nearby Dams

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the hazard classification of Algonquin Lake Dam?

Algonquin Lake Dam is classified as Significant Hazard. No probable loss of human life, but can cause economic loss, environmental damage, or disruption of lifeline facilities. This classification refers to the potential downstream consequences of a failure, not the dam's current structural condition.

Who owns and operates Algonquin Lake Dam?

Algonquin Lake Dam is owned by Algonquin Lake Association (Private). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.

When was Algonquin Lake Dam built?

Algonquin Lake Dam was completed in 1927, making it 99 years old. Many U.S. dams were built between the 1930s and 1970s during a period of major infrastructure investment.

What is the primary purpose of Algonquin Lake Dam?

Algonquin Lake Dam serves the following purposes: Recreation. Many dams in the U.S. are multi-purpose, supporting flood control, water supply, recreation, and other uses.

How tall is Algonquin Lake Dam?

Algonquin Lake Dam has a dam height of 14 ft. Dam height is measured from the natural streambed at the downstream toe to the top of the dam, and may differ from the visible height.

When was Algonquin Lake Dam last inspected?

Algonquin Lake Dam was last inspected on December 7, 2018. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.

Data from the National Inventory of Dams (NID) maintained by the US Army Corps of Engineers. Dam conditions may have changed since the last update. This site is not affiliated with USACE. Do not use for emergency planning — contact your local dam safety program.