Wau-Me-Gah Lake Dam
Key Takeaway
Wau-Me-Gah Lake Dam is classified as significant hazard in Michigan. It was completed in 1930 and is 96 years old. Its primary use is recreation. Significant hazard means failure could cause economic or environmental damage. Learn more.
Physical Details
| Dam Height | 8 ft (taller than 7.3% in MI) |
| Dam Length | 200 ft |
| Dam Type | Earth |
| Max Storage | 600 acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 140 acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 115 acres |
| Drainage Area | 2 sq mi |
| Max Discharge | 153 cfs |
| Year Completed | 1930 (96 years old) |
| NID ID | MI01675 |
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
Oakland County Drain Commissioner
Private
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Low Hazard 16 ftFrequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Wau-Me-Gah Lake Dam?
Wau-Me-Gah 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 Wau-Me-Gah Lake Dam?
Wau-Me-Gah Lake Dam is owned by Oakland County Drain Commissioner (Private). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Wau-Me-Gah Lake Dam built?
Wau-Me-Gah Lake Dam was completed in 1930, making it 96 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 Wau-Me-Gah Lake Dam?
Wau-Me-Gah 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 Wau-Me-Gah Lake Dam?
Wau-Me-Gah Lake Dam has a dam height of 8 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 Wau-Me-Gah Lake Dam last inspected?
Wau-Me-Gah Lake Dam was last inspected on September 18, 2019. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.