Wau-Me-Gah Lake Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Wau-Me-Gah Lake Dam, also known as Waumegah Lake Dam, is a privately owned structure located in Clarkston, Michigan.


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Summary

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.

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
       
Seasonal Comparison

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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.