Spring Lake Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Spring Lake Dam, also known as the Great Lakes Dam, is a privately owned structure located in Flint, Michigan.


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Summary

Completed in 1938, this earth dam stands at 8 feet high and serves primarily for recreational purposes. Situated on the Swartz Creek, it offers a serene setting for activities like fishing, boating, and wildlife observation, with a maximum storage capacity of 340 acre-feet and a drainage area of 0.5 square miles.

Despite its low hazard potential, Spring Lake Dam is regulated by the Michigan Department of Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy (DEGLE), with state permitting, inspection, and enforcement mechanisms in place. The dam features an uncontrolled spillway with a width of 6 feet, ensuring proper water management in times of high discharge. With a moderate risk assessment rating of 3, there is ongoing monitoring and maintenance to ensure the safety and stability of this essential water resource in Oakland County.

Water resource and climate enthusiasts can appreciate the historical significance and recreational value of Spring Lake Dam, as well as the importance of its role in the local ecosystem. The dam's location, design, and regulatory oversight highlight the delicate balance between human enjoyment and environmental stewardship, making it a fascinating subject for those interested in sustainable water management practices in the Great Lakes region.

Year Completed

1938

Dam Length

7

Dam Height

8

River Or Stream

Swartz Creek

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

19

Hydraulic Height

8

Drainage Area

0.5

Nid Storage

340

Structural Height

8

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

8
       
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.