Shavehead Lake Level Control Structure Reservoir Report
Nearby: Centenial Mill Dam Chupp Property Dam
Last Updated: December 5, 2025
The Shavehead Lake Level Control Structure, also known as the Shavehead Lake Dam, is a privately owned earth dam located in Cass County, Michigan.
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Summary
Completed in 1960, the structure serves primarily for recreational purposes, regulating the water levels of Shavehead Lake through its controlled spillway. With a dam height of 6.1 feet and a normal storage capacity of 260 acre-feet, the structure covers a surface area of 93 acres and has a maximum discharge capacity of 220 cubic feet per second.
Situated along Mud Creek in Elkhart, Indiana, the Shavehead Lake Level Control Structure is designed to withstand low hazard potential, with a satisfactory condition assessment as of November 2017. Despite being privately owned, the dam falls under state jurisdiction, with no state regulation, permitting, inspection, or enforcement requirements. The risk assessment for the structure is categorized as very high (1), indicating the need for vigilant monitoring and maintenance to ensure its continued functionality and safety for water resource and climate enthusiasts who frequent the area.
Overall, the Shavehead Lake Level Control Structure plays a crucial role in managing water levels and ensuring the safety of Shavehead Lake for recreational activities. While it may not be subject to stringent state regulations, the structure's risk assessment highlights the importance of regular inspections and maintenance to mitigate potential hazards and safeguard the surrounding environment. For those interested in water resource management and climate-related infrastructure, the Shavehead Lake Dam serves as a noteworthy example of a privately owned facility with significant implications for local water resources and recreational opportunities.
Year Completed |
1960 |
Dam Length |
14.5 |
Dam Height |
6.1 |
River Or Stream |
Mud Creek |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
93 |
Hydraulic Height |
5 |
Nid Storage |
320 |
Structural Height |
6.1 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Nid Height |
6 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
St. Joseph River At Mottville
|
891cfs |
St. Joseph River At Elkhart
|
1520cfs |
St. Joseph River At Three Rivers
|
588cfs |
Pigeon River Near Scott
|
116cfs |
Elkhart River At Goshen
|
170cfs |
Dowagiac River At Sumnerville
|
282cfs |
Dam Data Reference
Condition Assessment
SatisfactoryNo 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
HighDams 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.
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