Beaver Lake Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Beaver Lake Dam, located in Lapeer, Michigan, is a private Earth dam completed in 1960 with a primary purpose of recreation.


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Summary

It stands at a height of 24 feet and spans 730 feet in length, holding a normal storage capacity of 1600 acre-feet of water from Beaver Creek. Managed by the USDA NRCS, the dam is state-regulated by the Michigan DEGLE and undergoes regular inspections to ensure its structural integrity.

With a significant hazard potential and a moderate risk assessment rating, Beaver Lake Dam is deemed satisfactory in condition as of its last inspection in 2009. While it lacks certain safety features like outlet gates and an inundation map, the dam has not experienced any major modifications since its completion. Despite its risk level, the dam serves as a popular recreational spot for locals and visitors alike, offering a serene water body and surrounding area for various outdoor activities.

Overall, Beaver Lake Dam presents an interesting case study for water resource and climate enthusiasts, showcasing both the recreational benefits and potential risks associated with privately owned dams. Its historical construction and ongoing maintenance highlight the importance of proper oversight and monitoring to ensure the safety of surrounding communities and the continued enjoyment of recreational opportunities provided by such structures.

Year Completed

1960

Dam Length

730

Dam Height

24

River Or Stream

Beaver Creek

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

12

Hydraulic Height

24

Drainage Area

0.6

Nid Storage

2000

Structural Height

24

Hazard Potential

Significant

Nid Height

24
       
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.