Cedar Lake Dam
Key Takeaway
Cedar Lake Dam is classified as significant hazard in Michigan. It was completed in 1856 and is 170 years old. Its primary use is recreation. Significant hazard means failure could cause economic or environmental damage. Learn more.
Physical Details
| Dam Height | 16 ft (taller than 55.7% in MI) |
| Dam Length | 100 ft |
| Dam Type | Earth |
| Max Storage | 1.6K acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 1.1K acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 250 acres |
| Drainage Area | 7 sq mi |
| Max Discharge | 60 cfs |
| Year Completed | 1856 (170 years old) |
| NID ID | MI00586 |
Safety Information
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?
Ownership
Elmwood Township
Local Government
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Low Hazard 13 ftFrequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Cedar Lake Dam?
Cedar 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 Cedar Lake Dam?
Cedar Lake Dam is owned by Elmwood Township (Local Government). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Cedar Lake Dam built?
Cedar Lake Dam was completed in 1856, making it 170 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 Cedar Lake Dam?
Cedar 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 Cedar Lake Dam?
Cedar Lake Dam has a dam height of 16 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 Cedar Lake Dam last inspected?
Cedar Lake Dam was last inspected on August 23, 2017. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.