Scottish Hills Lake Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Scottish Hills Lake Dam, also known as Lake 20 Dam, is a privately owned structure located in Beaverton, Michigan.


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Summary

This earth dam, constructed in 1974, serves primarily for recreational purposes and stands at a height of 14 feet with a length of 200 feet. The dam has a storage capacity of 2,100 acre-feet and a normal storage level of 1,350 acre-feet, covering a surface area of 128 acres.

Situated on the Lake Twenty Outlet, the dam has a low hazard potential and was last inspected in June 2017, with a satisfactory condition assessment. Despite its moderate risk rating, the dam is regulated, permitted, inspected, and enforced by the Michigan Department of Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy, ensuring its structural integrity and safety for the surrounding community. With a maximum discharge capacity of 980 cubic feet per second and an uncontrolled spillway width of 50 feet, Scottish Hills Lake Dam plays a crucial role in managing water resources in the area.

Enthusiasts of water resources and climate in Gladwin, Michigan, will find Scottish Hills Lake Dam to be a fascinating structure that not only enhances recreational activities but also fulfills essential functions in water management and flood control. Its well-maintained condition, regulatory oversight, and moderate risk assessment underscore the importance of this dam in ensuring the safety and sustainability of the local environment and community.

Year Completed

1974

Dam Length

200

Dam Height

14

River Or Stream

Lake Twenty Outlet

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

128

Hydraulic Height

14

Drainage Area

3.6

Nid Storage

2100

Structural Height

14

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

14
       
Seasonal Comparison

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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.