Maple Lake Dam
Key Takeaway
Maple Lake Dam is classified as high hazard in Michigan. It was completed in 1908 and is 118 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 | 27 ft (taller than 86.3% in MI) |
| Dam Length | 400 ft |
| Dam Type | Earth |
| Max Storage | 2.5K acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 1.8K acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 170 acres |
| Drainage Area | 94 sq mi |
| Max Discharge | 4,640 cfs |
| Year Completed | 1908 (118 years old) |
| NID ID | MI00388 |
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
Village of Paw Paw
Local Government
Nearby Dams
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Maple Lake Dam?
Maple 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 Maple Lake Dam?
Maple Lake Dam is owned by Village of Paw Paw (Local Government). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Maple Lake Dam built?
Maple Lake Dam was completed in 1908, making it 118 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 Maple Lake Dam?
Maple 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 Maple Lake Dam?
Maple Lake Dam has a dam height of 27 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 Maple Lake Dam last inspected?
Maple Lake Dam was last inspected on July 2, 2018. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.