Lake Louise Dam
Key Takeaway
Lake Louise Dam is classified as high hazard in Michigan. It was completed in 1925 and is 101 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 | 12 ft (taller than 32.7% in MI) |
| Dam Length | 303 ft |
| Dam Type | Gravity |
| Max Storage | 860 acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 700 acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 143 acres |
| Drainage Area | 9 sq mi |
| Max Discharge | 555 cfs |
| Year Completed | 1925 (101 years old) |
| NID ID | MI00255 |
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
Oakland County Drain Commissioner
Private
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Low Hazard 19 ftFrequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Lake Louise Dam?
Lake Louise 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 Lake Louise Dam?
Lake Louise Dam is owned by Oakland County Drain Commissioner (Private). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Lake Louise Dam built?
Lake Louise Dam was completed in 1925, making it 101 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 Lake Louise Dam?
Lake Louise 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 Lake Louise Dam?
Lake Louise Dam has a dam height of 12 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 Lake Louise Dam last inspected?
Lake Louise Dam was last inspected on July 31, 2019. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.