Sawdel Lake Dam
Key Takeaway
Sawdel Lake Dam is classified as low hazard in Michigan. It was completed in 1949 and is 77 years old. Its primary use is recreation.
Physical Details
| Dam Height | 7 ft (taller than 1.3% in MI) |
| Dam Length | 120 ft |
| Dam Type | Earth |
| Max Storage | 160 acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 70 acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 22 acres |
| Drainage Area | 4 sq mi |
| Max Discharge | 260 cfs |
| Year Completed | 1949 (77 years old) |
| NID ID | MI00359 |
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 Wildlife
State Government
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Low Hazard 8 ftFrequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Sawdel Lake Dam?
Sawdel 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 Sawdel Lake Dam?
Sawdel Lake Dam is owned by MDNR Wildlife (State Government). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Sawdel Lake Dam built?
Sawdel Lake Dam was completed in 1949, making it 77 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 Sawdel Lake Dam?
Sawdel Lake Dam serves the following purposes: Recreation, Other. Many dams in the U.S. are multi-purpose, supporting flood control, water supply, recreation, and other uses.
How tall is Sawdel Lake Dam?
Sawdel Lake Dam has a dam height of 7 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 Sawdel Lake Dam last inspected?
Sawdel Lake Dam was last inspected on October 15, 2019. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.