Trout Lake Dam, located in Secord, Michigan, is a state-regulated structure with a primary purpose of recreation.
Wind
Humidity
This Earth-type dam, completed in 1961, stands at a height of 19 feet and has a hydraulic height of 17.2 feet. With a storage capacity of 240 acre-feet and a normal storage level of 160 acre-feet, the dam serves as a key feature for water resource management in the area.
The dam, which spans 85 feet in length and covers a surface area of 25 acres, is designed to manage the flow of the tributary to the North Branch Cedar River. Despite being classified as having a low hazard potential, Trout Lake Dam undergoes regular inspections, with the last assessment conducted in July 2019, which found the structure to be in satisfactory condition. The dam also has an uncontrolled spillway with a width of 5 feet in the event of high water levels.
For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Trout Lake Dam presents an interesting case study in the management of recreational water structures in Michigan. With its moderate risk assessment rating and state oversight for permitting, inspection, and enforcement, the dam plays a crucial role in balancing water conservation with recreational activities in the Gladwin County area. Its historical significance and ongoing maintenance efforts underscore the importance of sustainable water resource management practices for the future.
Year Completed |
1961 |
Dam Length |
85 |
Dam Height |
19 |
River Or Stream |
Tributary to N Br Cedar River |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
25 |
Hydraulic Height |
17.2 |
Drainage Area |
0.55 |
Nid Storage |
240 |
Structural Height |
19 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Nid Height |
19 |
| Location | Reservations | Toilets |
|---|---|---|
Trout Lake State Forest Campground
|
||
House Lake State Forest Campground
|
||
Gladwin City Park
|