Wau-Me-Gah Lake Dam, also known as Waumegah Lake Dam, is a privately owned structure located in Clarkston, Michigan.
Completed in 1930, this earth dam stands at a height of 8 feet and has a length of 200 feet, creating a reservoir with a maximum storage capacity of 600 acre-feet and a normal storage of 140 acre-feet. The dam's primary purpose is for recreation, offering a surface area of 115 acres for water enthusiasts to enjoy.
Situated on a tributary to the Clinton River, Wau-Me-Gah Lake Dam is regulated by the state of Michigan and falls under the jurisdiction of the Michigan Department of Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy (DEGLE). The dam has a significant hazard potential, but as of the last inspection in September 2019, its condition was assessed as satisfactory. The spillway, with a width of 25 feet, is uncontrolled, and the dam has a moderate risk rating, indicating potential risks that need to be managed.
For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Wau-Me-Gah Lake Dam offers a unique opportunity to explore the intersection of human-made infrastructure and natural ecosystems. With its recreational focus and historical significance, this dam serves as a reminder of the importance of proper maintenance and risk management in ensuring the safety and sustainability of our water resources in the face of changing climate conditions.
Wind
Humidity
Year Completed |
1930 |
Dam Length |
200 |
Dam Height |
8 |
River Or Stream |
Tributary to Clinton River |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
115 |
Hydraulic Height |
8 |
Drainage Area |
2.41 |
Nid Storage |
600 |
Structural Height |
8 |
Hazard Potential |
Significant |
Nid Height |
8 |
Clinton River At Auburn Hills
|
101cfs |
Huron River At Milford
|
73cfs |
Paint Creek At Rochester
|
18cfs |
Stony Creek Near Romeo
|
13cfs |
Stony Creek Near Washington
|
23cfs |
River Rouge At Birmingham
|
13cfs |