Shamrock Lake Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: James Bicknell Iii Dam Five Lakes Dam
Last Updated: December 5, 2025
Shamrock Lake Dam, located in Clare, Michigan, stands as a vital structure along the Tobacco River, serving the primary purpose of recreation.
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Summary
Constructed in 1962, this earth dam boasts a height of 20 feet and a length of 890 feet, with a storage capacity of 882 acre-feet. The dam's spillway, with a width of 90 feet, is uncontrolled, allowing for a maximum discharge of 2700 cubic feet per second.
With a high hazard potential, Shamrock Lake Dam is closely monitored and regulated by the Michigan DEGLE, ensuring its structural integrity and the safety of surrounding communities. The dam's condition assessment, last conducted in September 2020, deemed it satisfactory, with an inspection frequency of every 3 years. Despite its moderate risk level, the dam's risk management measures and emergency action plan preparation status remain unspecified, underscoring the importance of continued vigilance and preparedness in the face of potential emergencies. For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Shamrock Lake Dam presents an intriguing case study at the intersection of recreational infrastructure and environmental stewardship.
Year Completed |
1962 |
Dam Length |
890 |
Dam Height |
20 |
River Or Stream |
Tobacco River |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
120 |
Hydraulic Height |
19.8 |
Drainage Area |
85 |
Nid Storage |
882 |
Structural Height |
20 |
Hazard Potential |
High |
Nid Height |
20 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
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.
Shamrock Lake Dam
Washington Road 4863, Grant Township