Hamlin Lake Dam
Key Takeaway
Hamlin Lake Dam is classified as high hazard in Michigan. It was completed in 1913 and is 113 years old. Its primary use is recreation. High hazard means loss of life is likely if the dam fails — it does not indicate the dam's current condition. Learn more.
Physical Details
| Dam Height | 23 ft (taller than 79.7% in MI) |
| Dam Length | 206 ft |
| Dam Type | Gravity |
| Max Storage | 102.5K acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 85.6K acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 4,750 acres |
| Drainage Area | 206 sq mi |
| Max Discharge | 1,700 cfs |
| Year Completed | 1913 (113 years old) |
| NID ID | MI00236 |
Safety Information
Loss of human life is likely if the dam fails.
Hazard potential describes downstream consequences of failure, not the dam's current condition. What does this mean?
Ownership
MDNR Parks & Recreation
State Government
Nearby Dams
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Hamlin Lake Dam?
Hamlin Lake Dam is classified as High Hazard. Loss of human life is likely if the dam fails. This classification refers to the potential downstream consequences of a failure, not the dam's current structural condition.
Who owns and operates Hamlin Lake Dam?
Hamlin Lake Dam is owned by MDNR Parks & Recreation (State Government). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Hamlin Lake Dam built?
Hamlin Lake Dam was completed in 1913, making it 113 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 Hamlin Lake Dam?
Hamlin 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 Hamlin Lake Dam?
Hamlin Lake Dam has a dam height of 23 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 Hamlin Lake Dam last inspected?
Hamlin Lake Dam was last inspected on July 19, 2019. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.