Portage Lake Dam
Key Takeaway
Portage Lake Dam is classified as low hazard in Michigan. It was completed in 1957 and is 69 years old. Its primary use is recreation.
Physical Details
| Dam Height | 8 ft (taller than 7.3% in MI) |
| Dam Length | 3,200 ft |
| Dam Type | Earth |
| Max Storage | 6.5K acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 5.0K acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 400 acres |
| Drainage Area | 5 sq mi |
| Max Discharge | 37 cfs |
| Year Completed | 1957 (69 years old) |
| NID ID | MI00733 |
Safety Information
No probable loss of human life and low economic/environmental losses expected.
Hazard potential describes downstream consequences of failure, not the dam's current condition. What does this mean?
Ownership
MDNR Parks & Recreation
State Government
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Low Hazard 16 ftFrequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Portage Lake Dam?
Portage Lake Dam is classified as Low Hazard. No probable loss of human life and low economic/environmental losses expected. This classification refers to the potential downstream consequences of a failure, not the dam's current structural condition.
Who owns and operates Portage Lake Dam?
Portage 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 Portage Lake Dam built?
Portage Lake Dam was completed in 1957, making it 69 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 Portage Lake Dam?
Portage 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 Portage Lake Dam?
Portage Lake Dam has a dam height of 8 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 Portage Lake Dam last inspected?
Portage Lake Dam was last inspected on August 22, 2018. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.