West Shore Community College Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

The West Shore Community College Dam in Sugar Grove, Michigan, is a privately owned structure regulated by the Michigan Department of Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy.


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Summary

Completed in 1972, this earth dam stands at a height of 22 feet and spans 200 feet across the South Branch Lincoln River. With a primary purpose of recreation, the dam provides a storage capacity of 88 acre-feet and has a low hazard potential.

Despite its low hazard potential, the dam has a moderate risk assessment due to its age and the potential impact of a breach on downstream areas. The last inspection in 2015 deemed the structure to be in satisfactory condition, but regular monitoring and maintenance are crucial to ensure its continued safety and functionality. With a maximum discharge capacity of 215 cubic feet per second and an uncontrolled spillway, the West Shore Community College Dam plays a vital role in water resource management and flood control in the region.

Year Completed

1972

Dam Length

200

Dam Height

22

River Or Stream

Tr South Branch Lincoln River

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

6

Hydraulic Height

22

Nid Storage

88

Structural Height

22

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

22
       
Seasonal Comparison

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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.