Woodin Lake Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Woodin Lake Dam, located in Wolverine, Michigan, is a privately-owned structure that serves primarily for recreational purposes.


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Summary

Built in 1940, this earth dam stands at a height of 9 feet with a hydraulic height of 7 feet, creating a storage capacity of 100 acre-feet. The dam, situated on the West Branch Sturgeon River, spans 200 feet in length and covers a surface area of 28 acres, providing a serene setting for water enthusiasts and nature lovers alike.

Despite its age, Woodin Lake Dam has a low hazard potential and is classified as having a moderate risk level. The dam is regulated, permitted, inspected, and enforced by the Michigan Department of Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy (DEGLE), ensuring its safety and compliance with state regulations. The last inspection of Woodin Lake Dam took place in December 2005, with a scheduled inspection frequency of every 5 years to assess its condition and address any potential risks.

Water resource and climate enthusiasts will appreciate Woodin Lake Dam for its contribution to the local ecosystem and recreational opportunities it provides. With its controlled spillway, the dam helps manage water levels and supports the diverse wildlife in the area. As a privately-owned structure, it serves as a testament to the importance of responsible stewardship of water resources and the need for ongoing monitoring and maintenance to ensure its continued safety and functionality for future generations to enjoy.

Year Completed

1940

Dam Length

200

Dam Height

9

River Or Stream

West Branch Sturgeon River

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

28

Hydraulic Height

7

Drainage Area

1.5

Nid Storage

100

Structural Height

9

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

9
       
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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.