Sunset Lake Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: Lake Laura Dam Fawn Lake Dam
Last Updated: December 5, 2025
Sunset Lake Dam, located in Altona, Michigan, is a privately owned structure regulated by the Michigan Department of Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy (DEGLE).
°F
°F
mph
Wind
%
Humidity
Summary
Completed in 1981, this earth dam stands at a height of 11 feet and has a length of 340 feet, serving primarily for recreational purposes. With a normal storage capacity of 40 acre-feet and a maximum storage of 60 acre-feet, Sunset Lake Dam poses a low hazard potential and has been assessed to be in satisfactory condition as of September 2016.
Situated on the Tr W Br Little Muskegon River, this dam features an uncontrolled spillway and has a drainage area of 0.6 square miles. While it has not undergone any modifications in recent years, Sunset Lake Dam is subject to regular inspections every five years to ensure its structural integrity and safety. Despite its moderate risk rating, the dam has not been assigned a Dam Safety Action Classification (DSAC) date, indicating a relatively stable and well-maintained condition.
For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Sunset Lake Dam offers a fascinating glimpse into the intersection of human infrastructure and natural ecosystems. From its role in providing recreational opportunities to its importance in managing water levels and flow in the area, this dam serves as a critical piece of the local landscape. As efforts continue to monitor and maintain the dam, its presence highlights the ongoing need for responsible stewardship of our water resources in the face of changing environmental conditions.
Year Completed |
1981 |
Dam Length |
340 |
Dam Height |
11 |
River Or Stream |
Tr W Br Little Muskegon River |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
9 |
Hydraulic Height |
11 |
Drainage Area |
0.6 |
Nid Storage |
60 |
Structural Height |
11 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Nid Height |
11 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Little Muskegon River Near Oak Grove
|
164cfs |
Muskegon River Near Croton
|
1260cfs |
Muskegon River At Evart
|
373cfs |
Fish Creek Near Crystal
|
14cfs |
Chippewa River Near Mount Pleasant
|
169cfs |
Rogue River Near Rockford
|
126cfs |
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.
Canadian Lakes Campground
School Section Lake Park
Bass Beach Campground
Blanchard Millpond Park
Tubbs Lake State Forest Campground
Cran-Hill Ranch
Sunset Lake Dam
105th Avenue Morton Township