Coldwater Lake Level Control Structure Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

The Coldwater Lake Level Control Structure is a gravity dam located on the Coldwater River in Lockwood, Michigan.


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Summary

Completed in 1962, this structure serves primarily for recreational purposes, providing a storage capacity of 5,150 acre-feet and a normal storage level of 2,575 acre-feet. With a surface area of 1,610 acres, the dam stands at a height of 6.4 feet and has a controlled spillway width of 15 feet.

Despite its low hazard potential and satisfactory condition assessment, the Coldwater Lake Level Control Structure poses a very high risk due to its location and the potential impact of a failure. Although no associated structures or outlets gates are present, the dam is subject to regular inspections with an inspection frequency of 5 years, with the last inspection conducted in October 2019. The structure is not regulated or permitted by the state and has no emergency action plan in place, raising concerns about its risk management measures and preparedness for potential emergencies.

For water resource and climate enthusiasts, the Coldwater Lake Level Control Structure serves as a reminder of the importance of maintaining and monitoring dams for both recreational and safety purposes. As climate change continues to impact water resources and infrastructure, ensuring the resilience and reliability of such structures becomes increasingly vital in safeguarding communities and the environment. The risk assessment and management of dams like Coldwater Lake highlight the need for proactive measures to address potential hazards and strengthen emergency preparedness in the face of evolving environmental challenges.

Year Completed

1962

Dam Length

50

Dam Height

6.4

River Or Stream

Coldwater River

Primary Dam Type

Gravity

Surface Area

1610

Hydraulic Height

5

Nid Storage

5150

Structural Height

6.4

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

6
       
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.