North Lansing Dam

Grand River· Ingham, Michigan· Built 1936· Gravity· 20 ft tall
Significant Hazard Recreation Public Utility

Key Takeaway

North Lansing Dam is classified as significant hazard in Michigan. It was completed in 1936 and is 90 years old. Its primary use is recreation. Significant hazard means failure could cause economic or environmental damage. Learn more.

Physical Details

Dam Height 20 ft (taller than 70.3% in MI)
Dam Length252 ft
Dam TypeGravity
Max Storage1.8K acre-ft
Normal Storage500 acre-ft
Surface Area92 acres
Drainage Area1,230 sq mi
Max Discharge17,700 cfs
Year Completed1936 (90 years old)
NID IDMI00540

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: July 6, 2017
State Regulated: Yes
Regulatory Agency: MICHIGAN DEGLE

Ownership

Lansing Board of Water & Light

Public Utility

Nearby Dams

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the hazard classification of North Lansing Dam?

North Lansing 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 North Lansing Dam?

North Lansing Dam is owned by Lansing Board of Water & Light (Public Utility). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.

When was North Lansing Dam built?

North Lansing Dam was completed in 1936, making it 90 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 North Lansing Dam?

North Lansing 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 North Lansing Dam?

North Lansing Dam has a dam height of 20 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 North Lansing Dam last inspected?

North Lansing Dam was last inspected on July 6, 2017. 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.