Morrison West Chain Lake Level Control Structure Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

The Morrison West Chain Lake Level Control Structure, also known as Hodunk Dam, is a privately owned dam located in Branch, Michigan.


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Summary

Constructed in 1847, this earth dam stands at 14 feet tall and spans 560 feet in length. Its primary purpose is for recreation, offering a surface area of 1160 acres and a maximum storage capacity of 6800 acre-feet.

Managed by the Michigan Department of Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy (DEGLE), this dam is regulated and inspected regularly to ensure its safety and functionality. With a controlled spillway width of 160 feet and a maximum discharge capacity of 3840 cubic feet per second, the structure is equipped to handle potential flooding events with a low hazard potential. The dam's condition assessment in 2019 deemed it to be in satisfactory condition, further emphasizing its importance in managing water resources in the area.

Despite its age, the Morrison West Chain Lake Level Control Structure continues to play a crucial role in water management along the Coldwater River. With a very high risk assessment rating, efforts are being made to ensure the dam meets safety guidelines and remains a key asset for recreational activities and flood control in the region.

Year Completed

1847

Dam Length

560

Dam Height

14

River Or Stream

Coldwater River

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

1160

Hydraulic Height

13

Drainage Area

173

Nid Storage

6800

Structural Height

14

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

14
       
Seasonal Comparison

Weather Forecast

Dam Data Reference

Condition Assessment

Satisfactory
No existing or potential dam safety deficiencies are recognized. Acceptable performance is expected under all loading conditions (static, hydrologic, seismic) in accordance with the minimum applicable state or federal regulatory criteria or tolerable risk guidelines.
Fair
No existing dam safety deficiencies are recognized for normal operating conditions. Rare or extreme hydrologic and/or seismic events may result in a dam safety deficiency. Risk may be in the range to take further action. Note: Rare or extreme event is defined by the regulatory agency based on their minimum
Poor A dam safety deficiency is recognized for normal operating conditions which may realistically occur. Remedial action is necessary. POOR may also be used when uncertainties exist as to critical analysis parameters which identify a potential dam safety deficiency. Investigations and studies are necessary.
Unsatisfactory
A dam safety deficiency is recognized that requires immediate or emergency remedial action for problem resolution.
Not Rated
The dam has not been inspected, is not under state or federal jurisdiction, or has been inspected but, for whatever reason, has not been rated.
Not Available
Dams for which the condition assessment is restricted to approved government users.

Hazard Potential Classification

High
Dams assigned the high hazard potential classification are those where failure or mis-operation will probably cause loss of human life.
Significant
Dams assigned the significant hazard potential classification are those dams where failure or mis-operation results in no probable loss of human life but can cause economic loss, environment damage, disruption of lifeline facilities, or impact other concerns. Significant hazard potential classification dams are often located in predominantly rural or agricultural areas but could be in areas with population and significant infrastructure.
Low
Dams assigned the low hazard potential classification are those where failure or mis-operation results in no probable loss of human life and low economic and/or environmental losses. Losses are principally limited to the owner's property.
Undetermined
Dams for which a downstream hazard potential has not been designated or is not provided.
Not Available
Dams for which the downstream hazard potential is restricted to approved government users.