Lake Metamora Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Lake Metamora Dam, located in Lapeer, Michigan, is a privately owned earth dam constructed in 1964 for recreational purposes.


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Summary

The dam stands at a height of 21 feet, with a hydraulic height of 19.3 feet and a length of 1300 feet. It has a storage capacity of 599 acre-feet, with a normal storage level of 484 acre-feet and a surface area of 78 acres. The dam is situated on Farmers Creek and is regulated by the Michigan Department of Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy (DEGLE).

The dam has a significant hazard potential and is rated as being in fair condition as of the last inspection in August 2018. It has an uncontrolled spillway with a width of 20 feet and a maximum discharge capacity of 300 cubic feet per second. The dam's risk assessment is moderate, with a DSAC (Dam Safety Action Classification) of 3. While the dam meets state permitting, inspection, and enforcement requirements, there is no Emergency Action Plan (EAP) in place as of the latest data update in April 2021.

Lake Metamora Dam serves as a vital recreational resource for the community, providing opportunities for boating, fishing, and other water-based activities. Enthusiasts of water resources and climate will find the dam's design and operational details intriguing, as well as its role in managing water levels on Farmers Creek. As efforts continue to ensure the safety and integrity of the dam, its importance in sustaining the surrounding ecosystem and enhancing the local quality of life remains paramount.

Year Completed

1964

Dam Length

1300

Dam Height

21

River Or Stream

Farmers Creek

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

78

Hydraulic Height

19.3

Drainage Area

4.2

Nid Storage

599

Structural Height

21

Hazard Potential

Significant

Nid Height

21
       
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.