Surrey Lake Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Surrey Lake Dam, located in Farwell, Michigan, is a privately owned structure primarily used for recreation purposes.


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Summary

Completed in 1965, this earth dam stands at a height of 16 feet and spans 300 feet in length, creating a surface area of 41 acres and holding a maximum storage capacity of 1800 acre-feet. The dam is regulated by the Michigan DEGLE and undergoes regular inspections to ensure its safety and compliance with state regulations.

With a high hazard potential and a very high risk assessment rating, Surrey Lake Dam is considered a critical structure in the region. Despite its satisfactory condition assessment as of October 2020, the dam is closely monitored for any potential risks or issues that may arise. In the event of an emergency, the dam's owners are expected to have an Emergency Action Plan (EAP) in place, although the last revision date for this plan was in December 2017.

Enthusiasts of water resources and climate will find Surrey Lake Dam to be a fascinating structure due to its significant impact on the local ecosystem and water management. The controlled spillway and high discharge capacity of 147 cubic feet per second ensure proper water flow control, while the dam's location on Elm Creek adds to its importance in the region's hydrological system. As a privately owned dam regulated by the state, Surrey Lake Dam serves as a vital resource for both recreational enjoyment and water management in Clare County, Michigan.

Year Completed

1965

Dam Length

300

Dam Height

16

River Or Stream

Elm Creek

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

41

Hydraulic Height

16

Drainage Area

4.3

Nid Storage

1800

Structural Height

16

Hazard Potential

High

Nid Height

16
       
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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.