Kerswill Lake Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Kerswill Lake Dam, located in Beaverton, Michigan, is a privately owned structure that serves as a vital recreational resource in the area.


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Summary

Built in 1967, this earth dam stands at a height of 12 feet and spans 1020 feet in length. With a maximum storage capacity of 315 acre-feet and a normal storage level of 234 acre-feet, the dam helps regulate the flow of the Kerswill Lake Outlet, providing water for various recreational activities while also serving as a critical habitat for local wildlife.

Managed and regulated by the Michigan Department of Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy (DEGLE), Kerswill Lake Dam has a low hazard potential and is currently assessed to be in fair condition. The dam's spillway type is uncontrolled, with a width of 13 feet, allowing for a maximum discharge of 300 cubic feet per second. Despite its moderate risk assessment level, the dam's emergency action plan and risk management measures are currently not specified, highlighting the need for continued monitoring and maintenance to ensure the safety and integrity of this important water resource.

As a key feature of the local landscape, Kerswill Lake Dam not only provides valuable recreational opportunities for the community but also plays a crucial role in water management and conservation efforts. With its historical significance and environmental impact, the dam serves as a reminder of the importance of responsible stewardship of our natural resources in the face of changing climate patterns and increasing water-related challenges.

Year Completed

1967

Dam Length

1020

Dam Height

12

River Or Stream

Kerswill Lake Outlet

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

52

Hydraulic Height

12

Drainage Area

0.9

Nid Storage

315

Structural Height

12

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

12
       
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.