Cleveland Lake Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Cleveland Lake Dam, located in Whitehall, Michigan, is a privately owned structure that serves primarily for recreational purposes.


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Summary

Completed in 1960, this earth dam stands at a height of 21 feet and has a length of 250 feet. It holds a maximum storage capacity of 1344 acre-feet and covers a surface area of 90 acres. The dam is situated on Cleveland Creek and is regulated by the Michigan Department of Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy (DEGLE).

With a significant hazard potential, Cleveland Lake Dam is inspected every four years to ensure its structural integrity and safety. The condition assessment conducted in December 2016 deemed the dam to be satisfactory. In the event of an emergency, there is a need for an Emergency Action Plan (EAP) to be prepared, although the status of its existence and compliance with guidelines is currently unknown. The risk assessment for this dam is classified as very high, indicating the importance of proper risk management measures to be put in place.

For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Cleveland Lake Dam presents an intriguing case study in dam safety and management. With its unique location and purpose, understanding the intricacies of its design, regulation, and potential risks can provide valuable insights into the broader context of water infrastructure in Michigan. As climate change continues to impact water resources, the preservation and maintenance of structures like Cleveland Lake Dam become increasingly crucial for safeguarding both the environment and surrounding communities.

Year Completed

1960

Dam Length

250

Dam Height

21

River Or Stream

Cleveland Creek

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

90

Hydraulic Height

21

Nid Storage

1344

Structural Height

21

Hazard Potential

Significant

Nid Height

21
       
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.