Carpenter Dam (Indian Lake Dam) Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Carpenter Dam, also known as Indian Lake Dam or Brewery Dam, is a privately owned structure located in Manistique, Michigan.


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Summary

Built in 1878, this concrete dam spans 110 feet in length and stands at a height of 10 feet, holding a maximum storage capacity of 34,800 acre-feet. The dam serves the Indian River and plays a crucial role in regulating water flow and storage in the area.

With a significant hazard potential and a very high risk assessment rating, Carpenter Dam is subject to regular inspections by the Michigan Department of Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy (DEGLE). Despite its age, the dam's condition has been assessed as satisfactory during the last inspection in October 2018. The dam features a controlled spillway with a width of 66 feet and has the capacity to discharge up to 1980 cubic feet per second.

Water resource and climate enthusiasts will find Carpenter Dam a fascinating structure that has been integral to the local ecosystem for over a century. Its historical significance, engineering design, and role in water management make it a noteworthy site for those interested in the intersection of human infrastructure and natural resources.

Year Completed

1878

Dam Length

110

Dam Height

10

River Or Stream

Indian River

Primary Dam Type

Concrete

Surface Area

8659

Hydraulic Height

10

Drainage Area

283

Nid Storage

34800

Structural Height

10

Hazard Potential

Significant

Nid Height

10
       
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.