Hunter Lake Level Control Structure Reservoir Report

Last Updated: January 1, 2026

The Hunter Lake Level Control Structure, also known as Hunter Lake Dam, is a private-owned structure located in Gowen, Michigan.


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Summary

Completed in 1964, this earth dam serves primarily for recreational purposes, managing water levels in Hunter Lake, a tributary to the Flat River. With a height of 7 feet and a hydraulic height of 4.1 feet, the dam has a normal storage capacity of 60 acre-feet and a maximum storage of 140 acre-feet.

The dam's spillway is uncontrolled with a width of 12 feet, and it has a low hazard potential with a moderate risk assessment of 3. Although the structure has not been rated for its condition, the last inspection conducted was in September 1981. The dam's purpose is to provide recreational opportunities for the surrounding area, covering a surface area of 46 acres and serving a drainage area of 1.3 square miles.

Even though the Hunter Lake Level Control Structure has not been inspected for some time, it continues to serve its recreational purpose effectively. With its moderate risk assessment and low hazard potential, the dam remains a crucial component in managing water levels for Hunter Lake while providing a safe environment for recreational activities in Montcalm County, Michigan.

Year Completed

1964

Dam Length

75

Dam Height

7

River Or Stream

Tributary to Flat River

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

46

Hydraulic Height

4.1

Drainage Area

1.3

Nid Storage

140

Structural Height

7

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

7
       
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.