The dam, owned privately, stands at a height of 10 feet with a hydraulic height of 4 feet, spanning a length of 400 feet along Lost Creek. With a storage capacity of 60 acre-feet, the dam covers a surface area of 8 acres and has a drainage area of 12.4 square miles.
Managed by the Michigan Department of Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy (EGLE), Pankey Dam has a low hazard potential and is deemed to be in satisfactory condition following its last inspection in October 2017. The dam features a controlled spillway with a width of 6 feet and a maximum discharge capacity of 400 cubic feet per second. Despite its age, Pankey Dam continues to contribute to the local ecosystem while providing recreational opportunities for visitors, making it an important landmark in the region.
With its historical significance and ongoing maintenance by state regulatory agencies, Pankey Dam stands as a testament to Michigan's commitment to water resource management. As climate change continues to impact water resources, the dam serves as a vital structure for flood control and water storage, highlighting the importance of sustainable infrastructure for future generations of water resource and climate enthusiasts to appreciate and protect.
Year Completed |
1900 |
Dam Length |
400 |
Dam Height |
10 |
River Or Stream |
Lost Creek |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
8 |
Hydraulic Height |
4 |
Drainage Area |
12.4 |
Nid Storage |
60 |
Structural Height |
10 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Nid Height |
10 |