Lake Billings Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Lake Billings Dam, also known as the Manton Upper Power Dam, is a significant earth dam located in Manton, Michigan.


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Summary

Completed in 1919, this dam serves as a key recreational resource for the local community, offering a surface area of 17 acres and a maximum storage capacity of 110 acre-feet. The dam stands at a height of 14 feet and spans 570 feet across Manton Creek, with a controlled spillway width of 17 feet.

Managed by the local government and regulated by the Michigan Department of Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy (DEGLE), Lake Billings Dam has a satisfactory condition assessment and a significant hazard potential. Despite its age, the dam has been well-maintained, with the last inspection conducted in June 2017. With a very high risk assessment rating, emergency action plans are crucial for ensuring the safety and security of the surrounding area in the event of a breach or other emergency.

For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Lake Billings Dam offers a fascinating glimpse into the intersection of human engineering and environmental stewardship. Its role in providing recreational opportunities while also mitigating flood risks highlights the importance of sustainable dam management practices in ensuring the safety and well-being of communities that rely on these vital water resources.

Year Completed

1919

Dam Length

570

Dam Height

14

River Or Stream

Manton Creek

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

17

Hydraulic Height

14

Drainage Area

28.7

Nid Storage

110

Structural Height

14

Hazard Potential

Significant

Nid Height

14
       
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.