Lagrange Lake Dam

Dowagiac Creek· Cass, Michigan· Built 1826· Earth· 15 ft tall
Significant Hazard Recreation Private

Key Takeaway

Lagrange Lake Dam is classified as significant hazard in Michigan. It was completed in 1826 and is 200 years old. Its primary use is recreation. Significant hazard means failure could cause economic or environmental damage. Learn more.

Physical Details

Dam Height 15 ft (taller than 50.6% in MI)
Dam Length500 ft
Dam TypeEarth
Max Storage4.8K acre-ft
Normal Storage1.9K acre-ft
Surface Area600 acres
Drainage Area57 sq mi
Max Discharge1,325 cfs
Year Completed1826 (200 years old)
NID IDMI00031

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: November 12, 2003
State Regulated: No

Ownership

LaGrange Valley Conservancy, LLC

Private

Nearby Dams

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the hazard classification of Lagrange Lake Dam?

Lagrange 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 Lagrange Lake Dam?

Lagrange Lake Dam is owned by LaGrange Valley Conservancy, LLC (Private). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.

When was Lagrange Lake Dam built?

Lagrange Lake Dam was completed in 1826, making it 200 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 Lagrange Lake Dam?

Lagrange 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 Lagrange Lake Dam?

Lagrange Lake Dam has a dam height of 15 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 Lagrange Lake Dam last inspected?

Lagrange Lake Dam was last inspected on November 12, 2003. 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.