Wildwood Lake Dam
Key Takeaway
Wildwood Lake Dam is classified as high hazard in Michigan. It was completed in 1961 and is 65 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 | 22 ft (taller than 77.5% in MI) |
| Dam Length | 243 ft |
| Dam Type | Earth |
| Max Storage | 775 acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 221 acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 84 acres |
| Drainage Area | 3 sq mi |
| Max Discharge | 57 cfs |
| Year Completed | 1961 (65 years old) |
| NID ID | MI00276 |
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
MDNR Parks & Recreation
State Government
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What is the hazard classification of Wildwood Lake Dam?
Wildwood 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 Wildwood Lake Dam?
Wildwood Lake Dam is owned by MDNR Parks & Recreation (State Government). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Wildwood Lake Dam built?
Wildwood Lake Dam was completed in 1961, making it 65 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 Wildwood Lake Dam?
Wildwood 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 Wildwood Lake Dam?
Wildwood Lake Dam has a dam height of 22 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 Wildwood Lake Dam last inspected?
Wildwood Lake Dam was last inspected on October 17, 2018. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.