Maple Lake Dam Reservoir Report
Last Updated: January 12, 2026
Maple Lake Dam, also known as the Paw Paw Hydroelectric Plant Dam, is a significant water resource structure located in Lawrence, Michigan.
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Summary
Built in 1908, this earth dam stands at a height of 27 feet and spans 400 feet in length, with a primary purpose of recreation. The dam regulates the flow of the S Branch Paw Paw River, with a normal storage capacity of 1846 acre-feet and a drainage area of 94.3 square miles.
With a hazard potential rated as high and a condition assessment marked as fair, Maple Lake Dam poses a risk that is classified as very high (1). Despite these challenges, the dam is regularly inspected, with the last assessment conducted in July 2018. The dam features a controlled spillway with a width of 29 feet, helping to manage maximum discharge rates of up to 4640 cubic feet per second. This critical infrastructure is state-regulated and permitted, ensuring it meets necessary safety and operational standards.
For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Maple Lake Dam serves as a focal point for understanding the complexities and responsibilities associated with managing a vital water structure. As a local government-owned facility in Van Buren County, Michigan, the dam plays a crucial role in recreation and water regulation. Its historical significance, combined with its risk management measures and ongoing inspections, highlight the importance of maintaining and monitoring such essential infrastructure in the face of changing environmental conditions and increasing water resource challenges.
Year Completed |
1908 |
Dam Length |
400 |
Dam Height |
27 |
River Or Stream |
S Br Paw Paw River |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
170 |
Hydraulic Height |
24 |
Drainage Area |
94.3 |
Nid Storage |
2480 |
Structural Height |
27 |
Hazard Potential |
High |
Nid Height |
27 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Dam Data Reference
Condition Assessment
SatisfactoryNo 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
HighDams 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.
Maple Lake Dam
Sunset Park Boat Launch