Sunset Lake Dam
Key Takeaway
Sunset Lake Dam is classified as high hazard in Michigan. It was completed in 1850 and is 176 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 | 11 ft (taller than 26.9% in MI) |
| Dam Length | 1,040 ft |
| Dam Type | Earth |
| Max Storage | 690 acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 320 acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 97 acres |
| Drainage Area | 37 sq mi |
| Max Discharge | 729 cfs |
| Year Completed | 1850 (176 years old) |
| NID ID | MI00144 |
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
Kalamazoo County DC
Private
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What is the hazard classification of Sunset Lake Dam?
Sunset 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 Sunset Lake Dam?
Sunset Lake Dam is owned by Kalamazoo County DC (Private). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Sunset Lake Dam built?
Sunset Lake Dam was completed in 1850, making it 176 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 Sunset Lake Dam?
Sunset 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 Sunset Lake Dam?
Sunset Lake Dam has a dam height of 11 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 Sunset Lake Dam last inspected?
Sunset Lake Dam was last inspected on July 14, 2020. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.