Shamrock Lake Dam
Key Takeaway
Shamrock Lake Dam is classified as high hazard in Michigan. It was completed in 1962 and is 64 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 | 20 ft (taller than 70.3% in MI) |
| Dam Length | 890 ft |
| Dam Type | Earth |
| Max Storage | 882 acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 516 acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 120 acres |
| Drainage Area | 85 sq mi |
| Max Discharge | 2,700 cfs |
| Year Completed | 1962 (64 years old) |
| NID ID | MI00622 |
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
City of Clare
Local Government
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Low Hazard 22 ftFrequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Shamrock Lake Dam?
Shamrock 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 Shamrock Lake Dam?
Shamrock Lake Dam is owned by City of Clare (Local Government). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Shamrock Lake Dam built?
Shamrock 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 Shamrock Lake Dam?
Shamrock 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 Shamrock Lake Dam?
Shamrock Lake 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 Shamrock Lake Dam last inspected?
Shamrock Lake Dam was last inspected on September 18, 2020. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.