Upper Canadian Lakes Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Upper Canadian Lakes Dam, also known as Lake of The Clouds Dam, is a privately owned structure located in Altona, Michigan.


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Summary

Built in 1965, this earth dam stands at a height of 15.5 feet and serves primarily for recreational purposes, providing a storage capacity of 240 acre-feet. The dam overlooks Cedar Creek and has a spillway width of 17 feet, with a maximum discharge of 90 cubic feet per second.

Despite its low hazard potential, the dam is regulated and inspected by the Michigan Department of Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy (MDEGLE) to ensure its safety and compliance with state regulations. The last inspection was conducted in July 2020, with a moderate risk assessment rating of 3. While the dam's condition is currently not rated, it is important to note that emergency action plans and risk management measures are not specified, raising questions about preparedness in case of potential incidents.

Water resource and climate enthusiasts may find interest in the unique location and design of Upper Canadian Lakes Dam, as well as the regulatory oversight and risk assessment associated with its operation. With its scenic surroundings and recreational purpose, this dam serves as a reminder of the importance of proper maintenance and monitoring to ensure the safety of both the structure and the environment it impacts.

Year Completed

1965

Dam Length

500

Dam Height

15.5

River Or Stream

Cedar Creek

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

63

Hydraulic Height

15.5

Drainage Area

1.3

Nid Storage

240

Structural Height

15.5

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

16
       
Seasonal Comparison

Weather Forecast

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.