Shay Lake Level Control Structure Reservoir Report
Nearby: Peter's Dam Caro Dam
Last Updated: December 5, 2025
The Shay Lake Level Control Structure in Michigan is a privately owned dam designed to regulate water levels in Sucker Creek Drain.
°F
°F
mph
Wind
%
Humidity
Summary
Completed in 2002, this concrete dam stands at a height of 12.6 feet and has a hydraulic height of 7.2 feet. With a storage capacity of 200 acre-feet, the dam helps manage water flow and storage in the area, with a normal storage level of 60 acre-feet.
This structure is regulated by the Michigan Department of Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy (DEGLE) and is subject to regular inspections to ensure its safety and compliance with state regulations. The dam has a low hazard potential and a moderate risk assessment rating, indicating that it is relatively stable but requires ongoing monitoring and maintenance. With a maximum discharge capacity of 500 cubic feet per second, the Shay Lake Level Control Structure plays a crucial role in water resource management in Tuscola County.
Overall, the Shay Lake Level Control Structure is an essential piece of infrastructure for maintaining water levels and flow in the region. With its modern design and regulatory oversight, this dam helps mitigate flood risk and supports the sustainable use of water resources in the area. As climate change continues to impact water systems, structures like this will be increasingly vital for ensuring the resilience of communities and ecosystems in Michigan.
Year Completed |
2002 |
Dam Length |
58 |
Dam Height |
12.6 |
River Or Stream |
Sucker Creek Drain |
Primary Dam Type |
Concrete |
Surface Area |
41 |
Hydraulic Height |
7.2 |
Drainage Area |
5.2 |
Nid Storage |
200 |
Structural Height |
12.6 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Nid Height |
13 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
South Branch Flint River Near Columbiaville
|
59cfs |
Flint River Near Otisville
|
135cfs |
Farmers Creek Near Lapeer
|
12cfs |
Cass River At Frankenmuth
|
128cfs |
Kearsley Creek Near Davison
|
35cfs |
Mill Creek Near Avoca
|
18cfs |
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.
Shay Lake Level Control Structure