Rainbow Lake Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: Little Rainbow Lake Dam Sadilek Dam
Last Updated: December 5, 2025
Rainbow Lake Dam, located in Maple Rapids, Michigan, is a private dam constructed in 1962 primarily for recreational purposes.
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Summary
With a height of 46 feet and a length of 1000 feet, this earth dam stores up to 5400 acre-feet of water from the Pine Creek, covering a surface area of 238 acres. The dam is regulated by the Michigan DEGLE and undergoes regular inspections to ensure its structural integrity and safety.
Despite being classified as having a significant hazard potential, Rainbow Lake Dam has been assessed as satisfactory in condition, with the last inspection conducted in May 2019. The dam's spillway, with a controlled design and a width of 40 feet, helps manage water discharge during peak flow periods. In case of emergencies, the dam's emergency action plan was last revised in 1998, indicating the importance of preparedness and risk management at this site.
Overall, Rainbow Lake Dam presents a unique opportunity for water resource and climate enthusiasts to explore the intersection of human-made infrastructure and natural water systems. As a recreational dam in a picturesque setting, it serves as a reminder of the delicate balance between harnessing water resources for human use and ensuring the safety and sustainability of these structures for future generations.
Year Completed |
1962 |
Dam Length |
1000 |
Dam Height |
46 |
River Or Stream |
Pine Creek |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
238 |
Hydraulic Height |
46 |
Drainage Area |
84 |
Nid Storage |
5400 |
Structural Height |
46 |
Hazard Potential |
Significant |
Nid Height |
46 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Maple River At Maple Rapids
|
44cfs |
Fish Creek Near Crystal
|
14cfs |
Looking Glass River Near Eagle
|
51cfs |
Grand River At Portland
|
376cfs |
Grand River At Ionia
|
584cfs |
Grand River At Lansing
|
364cfs |
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.
Rainbow Lake Dam