Surrey Lake Dam
Key Takeaway
Surrey Lake Dam is classified as high hazard in Michigan. It was completed in 1965 and is 61 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 | 16 ft (taller than 55.7% in MI) |
| Dam Length | 300 ft |
| Dam Type | Earth |
| Max Storage | 1.8K acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 1.5K acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 41 acres |
| Drainage Area | 4 sq mi |
| Max Discharge | 147 cfs |
| Year Completed | 1965 (61 years old) |
| NID ID | MI00116 |
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
Clare County Drain Commissioner
Private
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Low Hazard 8 ftFrequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Surrey Lake Dam?
Surrey 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 Surrey Lake Dam?
Surrey Lake Dam is owned by Clare County Drain Commissioner (Private). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Surrey Lake Dam built?
Surrey Lake Dam was completed in 1965, making it 61 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 Surrey Lake Dam?
Surrey 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 Surrey Lake Dam?
Surrey Lake Dam has a dam height of 16 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 Surrey Lake Dam last inspected?
Surrey Lake Dam was last inspected on October 21, 2020. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.