Lake Hudson Dam Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 5, 2025
Lake Hudson Dam, located in Canadalgua, Michigan, is a state-owned earth dam that was completed in 1972 for recreational purposes.
°F
°F
mph
Wind
%
Humidity
Summary
The dam stands at a height of 27.8 feet and has a maximum storage capacity of 7,300 acre-feet. It is situated on Bear Creek and has a spillway width of 5 feet for uncontrolled discharge. Despite being classified as having a low hazard potential, the dam's condition is deemed satisfactory with a moderate risk assessment rating of 3 out of 5.
This dam, managed by the Michigan Department of Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy (DEGLE), plays a vital role in providing recreational opportunities for the local community and visitors while also serving as a water resource management structure. The dam's inspection frequency is every 5 years, with the last assessment conducted in August 2018. It is reassuring to note that the dam has state permitting, inspection, and enforcement mechanisms in place to ensure its continued safety and functionality.
Lake Hudson Dam's presence on the tranquil waters of Bear Creek in Lenawee County not only contributes to the region's scenic beauty but also serves as a crucial infrastructure for water storage and management. With its satisfactory condition and moderate risk assessment, the dam stands as a testament to Michigan's commitment to maintaining safe and efficient water resource structures for the benefit of both people and the environment.
Year Completed |
1972 |
Dam Length |
170 |
Dam Height |
27.8 |
River Or Stream |
Bear Creek |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
460 |
Hydraulic Height |
22.6 |
Drainage Area |
10.5 |
Nid Storage |
7300 |
Structural Height |
27.8 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Nid Height |
28 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Dam Data Reference
Condition Assessment
SatisfactoryNo 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
HighDams 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.
Lake Hudson Dam