Hiland Lake Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Hiland Lake Dam, located in Hell, Michigan, is a privately-owned structure with a primary purpose of recreation.


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Summary

Built in 1882, this gravity dam stands at a height of 19.1 feet and has a hydraulic height of 14.2 feet. With a storage capacity of 900 acre-feet and a drainage area of 79.7 square miles, the dam plays a crucial role in regulating water flow along the Portage River (Hell Creek).

Despite its age, Hiland Lake Dam has been deemed to be in satisfactory condition as of the last inspection in November 2018. However, its high hazard potential highlights the importance of regular maintenance and monitoring. With a moderate risk assessment rating, it is crucial for the state regulatory agency, MICHIGAN DEGLE, to continue enforcing inspection and enforcement protocols to ensure the safety and integrity of the dam.

As a significant feature in the picturesque landscape of Livingston County, Michigan, Hiland Lake Dam serves not only as a recreational area but also as a key component in water resource management. With its historical significance and vital role in the local ecosystem, it stands as a testament to the importance of balancing conservation efforts with the need for sustainable infrastructure development in the face of changing climate patterns.

Year Completed

1882

Dam Length

120

Dam Height

19.1

River Or Stream

Portage River (Hell Creek)

Primary Dam Type

Gravity

Surface Area

527

Hydraulic Height

14.2

Drainage Area

79.7

Nid Storage

900

Structural Height

19.1

Hazard Potential

High

Nid Height

19
       
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.