Crystal Lake Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Crystal Lake Dam, located in Fenton, Michigan, is a state-owned structure built in 1924 primarily for recreational purposes.


°F

°F

mph

Wind

%

Humidity

Summary

Situated on Swartz Creek, this earth dam stands at a height of 15 feet with a length of 365 feet, providing a maximum storage capacity of 120 acre-feet and a normal storage capacity of 70 acre-feet. Despite its low hazard potential, the dam has a moderate risk assessment rating and has not been inspected since August 1992.

With a spillway width of 10 feet and a maximum discharge of 150 cubic feet per second, Crystal Lake Dam plays a crucial role in managing water levels and ensuring the safety of surrounding areas. Although it is not regulated by the state and lacks regular inspection and enforcement measures, the dam remains a vital component of the local ecosystem. As water resource and climate enthusiasts, staying informed about the condition and management of Crystal Lake Dam is essential for understanding its impact on the environment and community.

Year Completed

1924

Dam Length

365

Dam Height

15

River Or Stream

Swartz Creek

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

12

Hydraulic Height

15

Drainage Area

2.6

Nid Storage

120

Structural Height

15

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

15
       
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.