Spencer Dam, located in Lenawee, Michigan, is a privately owned earth dam completed in 1975 for recreational purposes.
Wind
Humidity
Standing at a height of 20 feet and stretching 500 feet in length, the dam has a storage capacity of 110 acre-feet and a normal storage level of 70 acre-feet. Situated on a tributary to Posey Lake, the dam is regulated by the Michigan Department of Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy (DEGLE) with state permitting, inspection, and enforcement in place.
Despite being classified as having a low hazard potential, Spencer Dam is considered to have a high risk due to its location and age. The dam lacks a spillway and has not been inspected since November 1981, raising concerns about its safety and structural integrity. The risk assessment for Spencer Dam highlights the need for updated emergency action plans, inundation maps, and risk management measures to mitigate potential hazards and ensure the safety of surrounding communities.
Given its importance for recreational use and potential impact on the local environment, Spencer Dam warrants increased attention and monitoring from regulatory agencies. Climate enthusiasts and water resource professionals should advocate for regular inspections, risk assessments, and emergency preparedness to safeguard against any potential failures or disasters associated with this aging infrastructure.
Year Completed |
1975 |
Dam Length |
500 |
Dam Height |
20 |
River Or Stream |
Tributary to Posey Lake |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
13 |
Hydraulic Height |
20 |
Nid Storage |
110 |
Structural Height |
20 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Nid Height |
20 |