Crystal Lake Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Crystal Lake Dam in Hillsdale, Michigan, stands as a vital structure in the region, serving primarily for recreational purposes since its completion in 1976.


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Summary

This earth dam, with a height of 10.2 feet and a hydraulic height of 2.2 feet, holds a storage capacity of 290 acre-feet. The dam's controlled spillway and satisfactory condition assessment ensure low hazard potential, providing a sense of safety for nearby communities.

Located in the Detroit District, Crystal Lake Dam plays a crucial role in managing water resources for the tributaries of the Grand River. Despite being privately owned, the dam operates without state regulation or permitting, reflecting its efficient and well-maintained status. With a surface area of 125 acres and a maximum storage capacity of 290 acre-feet, the dam contributes significantly to the local ecosystem and recreational activities in the area.

While Crystal Lake Dam has not been modified in recent years, its risk assessment remains very high due to its critical role in flood control and water management. The dam's emergency action plan, hazard potential, and risk management measures are closely monitored, ensuring the safety and well-being of the surrounding community. Overall, Crystal Lake Dam stands as a testament to effective water resource management and climate resilience in the region.

Year Completed

1976

Dam Length

100

Dam Height

10.2

River Or Stream

Trib to Grand River

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

125

Hydraulic Height

2.2

Nid Storage

290

Structural Height

10.2

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

10
       
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.