Lower Canadian Lakes Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

The Lower Canadian Lakes Dam, also known as Cedar Creek Dam #1, is a private dam located in Altona, Michigan, on Cedar Creek.


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Summary

Built in 1965, this earth dam stands at a height of 22.5 feet and has a length of 800 feet, serving primarily for recreational purposes with a storage capacity of 4025 acre-feet. The dam is regulated by the state of Michigan and undergoes regular inspections to ensure its safety and compliance with state regulations.

With a significant hazard potential, the Lower Canadian Lakes Dam poses a moderate risk level and has an uncontrolled spillway with a width of 24 feet. Despite not being rated for its condition assessment, the dam is inspected every four years, with the last inspection taking place in October 2020. Although the dam has not been modified in recent years, it remains a key structure in the area, providing recreational opportunities and serving as an important water resource for the community.

For water resource and climate enthusiasts, the Lower Canadian Lakes Dam offers a fascinating insight into the management and regulation of dams in Michigan. This privately owned structure plays a crucial role in maintaining water levels and providing recreational activities for residents and visitors alike. As climate change continues to impact water resources, understanding the infrastructure and risk associated with dams like the Lower Canadian Lakes Dam is essential for ensuring the safety and sustainability of our water systems.

Year Completed

1965

Dam Length

800

Dam Height

22.5

River Or Stream

Cedar Creek

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

361

Hydraulic Height

22.5

Drainage Area

3.5

Nid Storage

4025

Structural Height

22.5

Hazard Potential

Significant

Nid Height

23
       
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.