Hayward Lake Dam Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 5, 2025
Hayward Lake Dam, also known as Westman Dam, is a concrete structure located in Menominee, Michigan, along the Walton River.
°F
°F
mph
Wind
%
Humidity
Summary
Completed in 1952, this dam serves primarily for recreational purposes and stands at a height of 9.5 feet with a storage capacity of 10,800 acre-feet. Its controlled spillway, with a width of 51 feet, ensures the safety of the surrounding area by managing maximum discharge levels of up to 860 cubic feet per second.
Managed by the Michigan Department of Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy, Hayward Lake Dam has been deemed to have a low hazard potential and fair condition. Despite its relatively low risk classification, the dam poses a very high risk due to its location and potential impact on the local community. Regular inspections every five years help to maintain its safety and integrity, with the last assessment conducted in June 2019. While the dam has not undergone significant modifications over the years, it remains a crucial infrastructure for water resource management and climate resilience in the region.
As a vital component of the local ecosystem, Hayward Lake Dam plays a crucial role in regulating water levels, providing recreational opportunities, and ensuring public safety. With its historical significance and ongoing maintenance efforts, this dam stands as a testament to Michigan's commitment to sustainable water resource management and climate adaptation. Its strategic location, efficient design, and reliable operation make it a key asset in safeguarding the environment and communities along the Walton River.
Year Completed |
1952 |
Dam Length |
161 |
Dam Height |
9.5 |
River Or Stream |
Walton River |
Primary Dam Type |
Concrete |
Surface Area |
1800 |
Hydraulic Height |
8.5 |
Drainage Area |
49.6 |
Nid Storage |
10800 |
Structural Height |
9.5 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Nid Height |
10 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Menominee River Near Mc Allister
|
2220cfs |
Menominee River At Koss
|
1920cfs |
Menominee River At White Rapids Dam Near Banat
|
1200cfs |
Menominee River Below Pemene Creek Near Pembine
|
1640cfs |
Ford River Near Hyde
|
286cfs |
Peshtigo River At Porterfield
|
394cfs |
Dam Data Reference
Condition Assessment
SatisfactoryNo 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
HighDams 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.
Hayward Lake Dam
Orley Lane No 18.70 Stephenson Township