Rainbow Lake Dam
Key Takeaway
Rainbow Lake Dam is classified as significant hazard in Michigan. It was completed in 1962 and is 64 years old. Its primary use is recreation. Significant hazard means failure could cause economic or environmental damage. Learn more.
Physical Details
| Dam Height | 46 ft (taller than 95.7% in MI) |
| Dam Length | 1,000 ft |
| Dam Type | Earth |
| Max Storage | 5.4K acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 4.0K acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 238 acres |
| Drainage Area | 84 sq mi |
| Max Discharge | 4,000 cfs |
| Year Completed | 1962 (64 years old) |
| NID ID | MI00616 |
Safety Information
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?
Ownership
Rainbow Lakes Maintenance Corp.
Private
Nearby Dams
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Rainbow Lake Dam?
Rainbow 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 Rainbow Lake Dam?
Rainbow Lake Dam is owned by Rainbow Lakes Maintenance Corp. (Private). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Rainbow Lake Dam built?
Rainbow Lake Dam was completed in 1962, making it 64 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 Rainbow Lake Dam?
Rainbow 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 Rainbow Lake Dam?
Rainbow Lake Dam has a dam height of 46 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 Rainbow Lake Dam last inspected?
Rainbow Lake Dam was last inspected on May 20, 2019. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.