Mud Lake Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Mud Lake Dam, located in Waterloo, Michigan, was completed in 1840 and serves as a recreational structure along the Mud Lake Outlet.


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Summary

This gravity dam stands at 9 feet in height and spans 100 feet in length, providing a storage capacity of 184 acre-feet. With a surface area of 250 acres and a drainage area of 5.4 square miles, the dam offers a picturesque setting for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers to enjoy.

Despite being classified as having a low hazard potential and fair condition assessment, Mud Lake Dam has a moderate risk rating of 3. The dam features an uncontrolled spillway with a width of 10 feet, allowing for the safe release of excess water. The last inspection in 2002 revealed that the dam was in satisfactory condition, with a scheduled inspection frequency of every 5 years. While no emergency action plan is currently in place, the dam remains a vital recreational asset for the community.

Managed by the state of Michigan, Mud Lake Dam contributes to the overall environmental and recreational landscape of Jackson County. With a rich history dating back to the 19th century, this structure continues to provide opportunities for boating, fishing, and wildlife observation. As water resource and climate enthusiasts, the conservation and maintenance of Mud Lake Dam are crucial to ensuring its longevity and continued enjoyment for generations to come.

Year Completed

1840

Dam Length

100

Dam Height

9

River Or Stream

Mud Lake Outlet

Primary Dam Type

Gravity

Surface Area

250

Hydraulic Height

4.8

Drainage Area

5.4

Nid Storage

184

Structural Height

9

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

9
       
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.