Caroga Lake Level Control Structure Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

The Caroga Lake Level Control Structure, also known as Walker's Point Dam, is a state-managed dam located in Livingston County, Michigan.


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Summary

Completed in 1970, this earth dam serves primarily for recreational purposes, providing control over the water levels of Caroga Lake. With a dam height of 8.5 feet and a hydraulic height of 6.5 feet, the structure has a low hazard potential and is considered to be in satisfactory condition based on the latest assessment in May 2020.

Situated on Chilson Creek in Lakeland, Michigan, the Caroga Lake Level Control Structure has a normal storage capacity of 40 acre-feet and a maximum storage of 460 acre-feet. The dam, with a length of 258 feet and a surface area of 119 acres, plays a crucial role in managing the water resources in the area. The spillway, with a width of 30 feet, allows for a maximum discharge of 530 cubic feet per second, ensuring proper water flow and flood control measures are in place.

Despite its moderate risk assessment rating, the Caroga Lake Level Control Structure is regularly inspected and maintained by Michigan's regulatory agency to ensure its safety and functionality. With a designated emergency action plan and updated contact information, this dam remains a vital component in water resource management and climate resilience efforts in the region.

Year Completed

1970

Dam Length

258

Dam Height

8.5

River Or Stream

Chilson Creek

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

119

Hydraulic Height

6.5

Drainage Area

10.7

Nid Storage

460

Structural Height

8.5

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

9
       
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.