North Lansing Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

The North Lansing Dam, located on the Grand River in Lansing, Michigan, serves primarily for recreational purposes.


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Summary

Constructed in 1936, this gravity dam stands at a height of 20 feet and has a hydraulic height of 12 feet. With a length of 252 feet, it has a maximum storage capacity of 1810 acre-feet, with a normal storage level of 500 acre-feet. The dam also features a controlled spillway with a width of 233 feet, capable of handling a maximum discharge of 17,700 cubic feet per second.

Managed by a public utility, the North Lansing Dam is regulated by the Michigan Department of Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy (DEGLE). Despite being classified as having a significant hazard potential, the dam's condition was assessed as satisfactory during its last inspection in July 2017. The risk assessment for this structure is very high, with a DSAC assigned rating of 1. Emergency action plans and risk management measures for the dam are currently under review and development.

For water resource and climate enthusiasts, the North Lansing Dam presents an intriguing case study in the management of a vital water infrastructure within a populated urban area. With its rich history and continued importance for recreation and water storage, this dam serves as a focal point for understanding the complexities of balancing human needs with environmental considerations in the face of climate change and increasing water demands. As efforts to address the risks associated with the dam progress, its role in the local ecosystem and community resilience will undoubtedly continue to be a topic of interest and discussion among stakeholders.

Year Completed

1936

Dam Length

252

Dam Height

20

River Or Stream

Grand River

Primary Dam Type

Gravity

Surface Area

92

Hydraulic Height

12

Drainage Area

1230

Nid Storage

1810

Structural Height

20

Hazard Potential

Significant

Nid Height

20
       
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.