Located in Weidman, Michigan, Walker Creek Dam #2, also known as Manitonka Lake Dam, is a privately owned structure with a primary purpose of recreation.
Wind
Humidity
Built in 1968, this earth-type dam stands at a height of 18 feet and spans a length of 700 feet, creating a reservoir with a maximum storage capacity of 900 acre-feet and a normal storage of 301 acre-feet. The dam, situated on Walker Creek, covers a surface area of 42 acres and has a drainage area of 2.8 square miles.
Despite its recreational significance, Walker Creek Dam #2 poses a significant hazard potential with a poor condition assessment and a very high risk rating. The dam's last inspection in 2009 revealed its poor condition, highlighting the need for regular maintenance and potential upgrades to ensure public safety. With a controlled spillway type and a spillway width of 14 feet, the dam has a maximum discharge capacity of 115 cubic feet per second. The dam is regulated by the Michigan DEGLE and undergoes regular state inspections and enforcement.
Enthusiasts of water resources and climate in Isabella County, Michigan, may find Walker Creek Dam #2 an intriguing subject for further study and monitoring. As a key recreational asset in the area, the dam's structural integrity and risk management measures are critical considerations for local authorities and residents. With its historical significance dating back to the late 1960s, the dam serves as a vital component of the local water infrastructure and warrants ongoing attention to ensure its continued safe operation amidst evolving environmental conditions and regulatory standards.
Year Completed |
1968 |
Dam Length |
700 |
Dam Height |
18 |
River Or Stream |
Walker Creek |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
42 |
Hydraulic Height |
18 |
Drainage Area |
2.8 |
Nid Storage |
900 |
Structural Height |
18 |
Hazard Potential |
Significant |
Nid Height |
18 |
| Location | Reservations | Toilets |
|---|---|---|
Coldwater Lake Family Park
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Merrill Lake Park
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Tubbs Lake State Forest Campground
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