Ranney Lake Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Ranney Lake Dam, formerly known as Terry Wallin Dam, is a privately owned structure located in Belding, Michigan.


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Summary

Built in 1973 by USDA NRCS, this earth dam stands at 10 feet high and serves primarily for recreational purposes. With a storage capacity of 293 acre-feet and a normal storage level of 144 acre-feet, the dam spans 75 feet in length and covers a surface area of 45 acres, regulating an unnamed tributary to Flat River.

Despite being classified as low hazard potential and having a satisfactory condition assessment, Ranney Lake Dam is subject to state regulation, inspection, and enforcement by the MICHIGAN DEGLE agency. The uncontrolled spillway, with a width of 14 feet, can handle a maximum discharge of 20 cubic feet per second. While the dam is not federally owned or funded, its risk assessment is moderate, indicating a level 3 risk, although specific risk management measures are not detailed in the available data.

Overall, Ranney Lake Dam presents an intriguing case study for water resource and climate enthusiasts due to its unique design, historic construction date, and state-regulated status. With its recreational focus, moderate risk assessment, and location within the Chicago District of the USACE, this dam offers a compelling opportunity for further exploration and analysis in the realm of water resource management and climate adaptation efforts.

Year Completed

1973

Dam Length

75

Dam Height

10

River Or Stream

Unnamed Tributary to Flat R

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

45

Hydraulic Height

8

Drainage Area

0.3

Nid Storage

293

Structural Height

10

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

10
       
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.