Grand Mere Lake Level Control Structure Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Located in Berrien, Michigan, the Grand Mere Lake Level Control Structure is a gravity dam completed in 2007 with a primary purpose of recreation.


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Summary

Standing at 8.1 feet in height, the dam boasts a storage capacity of 400 acre-feet and a normal storage level of 95 acre-feet. The structure controls the water level in Grand Mere Lake, ensuring a safe and enjoyable environment for water resource and climate enthusiasts.

With a spillway width of 10 feet and an uncontrolled spillway type, the Grand Mere Lake Level Control Structure has a low hazard potential and is assessed to be in satisfactory condition as of the last inspection in December 2020. The structure, which overlooks the Valley Drain, covers a surface area of 68 acres and serves as a vital component for maintaining the ecological balance of the surrounding area. Despite being privately owned, the dam plays a crucial role in water management and flood control in the region.

While not regulated by the state, the Grand Mere Lake Level Control Structure is monitored for its risk assessment, which has been classified as moderate. With a designated inspection frequency of 5 years, the structure is equipped with emergency protocols for any unforeseen events. Overall, the dam stands as a testament to the importance of sustainable water resource management and the preservation of natural habitats in Michigan.

Year Completed

2007

Dam Length

50

Dam Height

8.1

River Or Stream

Valley Drain

Primary Dam Type

Gravity

Surface Area

68

Hydraulic Height

5.5

Drainage Area

5.6

Nid Storage

400

Structural Height

8.1

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

8
       
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.