Sand Lake Level Control Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

The Sand Lake Level Control Dam, also known as Upper Lake, is a private dam located in Beaverton, Michigan, along Mostellar Creek.


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Summary

Constructed in 1981, this earth dam serves primarily for recreational purposes, with a normal storage capacity of 175 acre-feet and a maximum storage of 300 acre-feet. The dam has a height of 7 feet and spans a surface area of 117.8 acres, helping to regulate the water levels of Sand Lake and enhance the recreational opportunities in the area.

Despite being privately owned, the Sand Lake Level Control Dam is not regulated or inspected by state agencies. It has a low hazard potential and is currently in a condition that has not been rated. The dam does not have a spillway and has a maximum discharge rate of 8 cubic feet per second. The area surrounding the dam is at a high risk for potential hazards, with a risk assessment rating of 2, indicating the need for continued monitoring and risk management measures to ensure the safety of the structure and surrounding community.

Water resource and climate enthusiasts can appreciate the role of the Sand Lake Level Control Dam in supporting recreational activities and managing water levels in the region. As part of the infrastructure along Mostellar Creek, this dam serves as a vital component in the local ecosystem, providing opportunities for outdoor enjoyment while mitigating potential risks associated with water management. By staying informed about the condition and functionality of such structures, enthusiasts can contribute to the sustainable management of water resources and the protection of natural habitats for future generations.

Year Completed

1981

Dam Height

7

River Or Stream

Mostellar Creek

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

117.8

Hydraulic Height

7

Drainage Area

2.46

Nid Storage

300

Structural Height

7

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

7
       
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.