Hemingway Lake Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Hemingway Lake Dam, located in Columbiaville, Michigan, serves as a vital structure for recreation on the Hemmingway and Wipple Drain rivers.


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Summary

Built in 1912, this earth dam stands at a height of 12.4 feet and spans 200 feet in length, providing a storage capacity of 875 acre-feet with a normal storage of 700 acre-feet. The dam's low hazard potential and satisfactory condition assessment make it a reliable resource for water management in the Lapeer County area.

Managed by a private owner, Hemingway Lake Dam is regulated by the Michigan Department of Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy (DEGLE), ensuring that state inspection, enforcement, and permitting requirements are met. The dam's uncontrolled spillway, with a width of 14 feet, can handle a maximum discharge of 384 cubic feet per second, further enhancing its safety and functionality. Recreational activities such as boating, fishing, and wildlife observation benefit from this dam, making it a valuable asset for both water resource and climate enthusiasts in the region.

With a moderate risk assessment rating, Hemingway Lake Dam continues to play a crucial role in water management and recreation in the area. Its historical significance, combined with its modern functionality and regulatory compliance, highlights the importance of sustainable dam infrastructure for both environmental conservation and public enjoyment. As a key feature in the local landscape, Hemingway Lake Dam stands as a testament to the intersection of human ingenuity and environmental stewardship in the face of changing climate patterns.

Year Completed

1912

Dam Length

200

Dam Height

12.4

River Or Stream

Hemmingway and Wipple Drain

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

65

Hydraulic Height

11.3

Drainage Area

2.6

Nid Storage

875

Structural Height

12.4

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

12
       
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.
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Area Campgrounds