Squier Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Squier Dam, located in Dryden, Michigan, is a local government-owned earth dam built in 1840 primarily for recreation purposes.


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Summary

With a height of 20 feet and a length of 1050 feet, the dam spans the Dryden Drain and has a storage capacity of 60 acre-feet. The dam's spillway is uncontrolled, with a width of 3 feet, and it has a low hazard potential.

Despite being completed over 180 years ago, Squier Dam remains in a moderately risky condition with a risk assessment rating of 3 out of 5. Although the dam is not state-regulated and does not have a designated state jurisdiction, it is periodically inspected every five years. The last recorded inspection date for Squier Dam was on January 1, 1901, with the condition assessment listed as "Not Rated."

Water resource and climate enthusiasts can appreciate Squier Dam not only for its historical significance but also for its role in providing recreational opportunities in the Lapeer County area. While the dam's risk assessment suggests a moderate level of concern, its low hazard potential and strategic location make it an intriguing site for further exploration and study in the realm of water resource management and climate resilience.

Year Completed

1840

Dam Length

1050

Dam Height

20

River Or Stream

Dryden Drain

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

3.7

Hydraulic Height

20

Nid Storage

60

Structural Height

20

Hazard Potential

Low

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.