Lake Street Dam And Flume Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Lake Street Dam and Flume, located in Petoskey, Michigan, along the Bear River, is a historic structure completed in 1895 for recreational purposes.


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Summary

This gravity dam stands at 11 feet high and spans 50 feet in length, with a storage capacity of 150 acre-feet. Despite its age, the dam's hazard potential is rated as low, with a moderate risk assessment of 3 out of 5.

The dam features an uncontrolled spillway with a width of 31 feet, serving as a vital component for managing water flow in the area. While the dam is not currently regulated or inspected by state agencies, its condition is not rated, highlighting the need for ongoing monitoring and maintenance. With its scenic location and historical significance, Lake Street Dam and Flume presents a unique opportunity for water resource and climate enthusiasts to explore the intersection of human-made structures and natural environments.

As a gravity dam, Lake Street Dam and Flume embodies the rich history of water management in Michigan, providing a glimpse into the past while offering recreational opportunities for present-day visitors. With its low hazard potential and moderate risk assessment, the dam serves as a reminder of the importance of balancing human needs with environmental considerations in the management of water resources. As efforts continue to preserve and maintain this historic structure, there is a continued opportunity for enthusiasts to learn and engage with the complex dynamics of water resource management in a changing climate.

Year Completed

1895

Dam Length

50

Dam Height

11

River Or Stream

Bear River

Primary Dam Type

Gravity

Surface Area

1

Hydraulic Height

11

Drainage Area

117

Nid Storage

150

Structural Height

11

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

11
       
Seasonal Comparison

Weather Forecast

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.