Lake Le-Ann South Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Lake Le-Ann South Dam, located in Liberty, Michigan, is a privately owned earth dam constructed in 1960 for recreational purposes.


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Summary

Standing at a height of 23 feet with a hydraulic height of 21.9 feet, this dam serves as a vital structure along the Grand River. With a storage capacity of 1000 acre-feet and a surface area of 275 acres, Lake Le-Ann South Dam provides opportunities for boating, fishing, and other water-based activities in the area.

Maintained and regulated by the Michigan Department of Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy, the dam has a low hazard potential and is in satisfactory condition as of the last inspection in October 2019. Despite its low risk level, the dam has a very high risk assessment due to its critical role in managing water resources in the region. The controlled spillway with a width of 3 feet ensures safe water release during periods of high discharge, further enhancing the safety and functionality of the dam.

Overall, Lake Le-Ann South Dam stands as a key infrastructure for water resource management and recreation in Hillsdale County, Michigan. Its importance in providing water storage, flood control, and recreational opportunities makes it a significant asset for both the local community and visitors alike. As climate change and water scarcity continue to pose challenges, the proper maintenance and regulation of dams like Lake Le-Ann South Dam are crucial for ensuring sustainable water management practices in the region.

Year Completed

1960

Dam Length

155

Dam Height

23

River Or Stream

Grand River

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

275

Hydraulic Height

21.9

Drainage Area

1.6

Nid Storage

1000

Structural Height

23

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

23
       
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.