Hemlock Carpenter And Long Lake Dam Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 5, 2025
Hemlock Carpenter and Long Lake Dam, located in Hillsdale, Michigan, along the Hog Creek, is a private gravity dam built in 1962 primarily for recreational purposes.
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Summary
With a height of 6.5 feet and a hydraulic height of 4.1 feet, this dam serves as a key water resource for the surrounding area, providing a storage capacity of 112 acres and covering a surface area of 386 acres. Despite its relatively low hazard potential and fair condition assessment, the dam poses a moderate risk, prompting a regular inspection frequency of every 5 years to ensure its structural integrity and safety.
Managed by private owners, Hemlock Carpenter and Long Lake Dam is not regulated by the state and does not fall under federal jurisdiction, highlighting its independent operational status. The dam features an uncontrolled spillway with a width of 12 feet, and no associated locks or drainage areas. While it may not receive federal funding, design, or construction support, the dam continues to play a vital role in enhancing recreational opportunities and water resource management in the region. With its annual capacity meeting the storage demands and the dam's overall moderate risk assessment, it remains a key infrastructure for the community.
As water resource and climate enthusiasts explore the intricate details of Hemlock Carpenter and Long Lake Dam, they are drawn to its unique location and design features. Despite its private ownership and lack of state regulation, this gravity dam serves as a focal point for recreational activities and water storage needs. With a moderate risk assessment and fair condition, the dam stands as a testament to effective water resource management and infrastructure development in the region.
Year Completed |
1962 |
Dam Length |
40 |
Dam Height |
6.5 |
River Or Stream |
Hog Creek |
Primary Dam Type |
Gravity |
Surface Area |
386 |
Hydraulic Height |
4.1 |
Nid Storage |
112 |
Structural Height |
6.5 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Nid Height |
7 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
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.
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