Lake James Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Lake James Dam, located in Houghton Lake, Michigan, is a privately owned structure that serves as a recreational destination for water enthusiasts.


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Summary

Built in 1962 on Denton Creek, this earth dam stands at a height of 17.7 feet and has a hydraulic height of 16 feet. With a storage capacity of 2465 acre-feet and a normal storage level of 750 acre-feet, the dam covers a surface area of 900 acres and serves a drainage area of 41 square miles.

Despite its satisfactory condition assessment as of September 2019, Lake James Dam is classified as having a high hazard potential due to its proximity to populated areas. The dam features an uncontrolled spillway with a width of 80 feet and is regularly inspected by the state regulatory agency in Michigan, DEGLE. Although there are no associated structures or locks, the dam plays a crucial role in managing water flow and providing recreational opportunities for the local community.

With its moderate risk assessment rating and a history of periodic inspections, Lake James Dam remains a vital component of the water resource infrastructure in Roscommon County, Michigan. As a popular spot for outdoor activities, the dam's presence on Denton Creek contributes to both the natural beauty of the area and the recreational enjoyment of residents and visitors alike.

Year Completed

1962

Dam Length

810

Dam Height

17.7

River Or Stream

Denton Creek

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

900

Hydraulic Height

16

Drainage Area

41

Nid Storage

2465

Structural Height

17.7

Hazard Potential

High

Nid Height

18
       
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.