Summary
Built in 1971, this earth dam stands at a height of 25 feet and has a length of 590 feet, with a storage capacity of 250 acre-feet. The dam primarily serves the purpose of recreation, offering a surface area of 18 acres for outdoor activities such as fishing and boating.
Managed by the Michigan Department of Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy (DEGLE), Lionel Wensley Dam is regulated, inspected, and enforced to ensure its safety and compliance with state standards. Despite being classified as a low hazard potential structure with satisfactory condition assessment in 2005, the dam still presents a moderate risk level according to the latest data. With a moderate risk rating, it is essential for proper risk management measures to be in place to address any potential issues that may arise.
While the dam's spillway is uncontrolled and the hazard potential is low, ongoing risk assessment and management are crucial to prevent any unforeseen emergencies. With its scenic location along Forester Creek, Lionel Wensley Dam continues to provide recreational opportunities for water resource and climate enthusiasts to enjoy while also highlighting the importance of responsible dam management and safety protocols.
Year Completed |
1971 |
Dam Length |
590 |
Dam Height |
25 |
River Or Stream |
Forester Creek |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
18 |
Hydraulic Height |
25 |
Drainage Area |
6.6 |
Nid Storage |
250 |
Structural Height |
25 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Nid Height |
25 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Black River Near Jeddo
|
384cfs |
Mill Creek Near Avoca
|
837cfs |
Belle River At Memphis
|
164cfs |
South Branch Flint River Near Columbiaville
|
328cfs |
Pigeon R Near Caseville
|
64cfs |
Farmers Creek Near Lapeer
|
64cfs |
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.
Lionel Wensley Dam