Ray Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Ray Dam, also known as Carpenter Lake Dam, is a gravity dam located in Southfield, Michigan, with a primary purpose of recreation.


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Summary

This dam, managed by the local government, stands at a height of 18 feet and has a hydraulic height of 16 feet, with a length of 235 feet. It is situated on a tributary to the River Rouge and has a maximum discharge capacity of 1800 cubic feet per second.

The dam has a low hazard potential and is in satisfactory condition as of the last inspection in June 2017. It has a storage capacity of 50 acre-feet and a surface area of 4.6 acres, serving the surrounding area for recreational activities. The spillway is uncontrolled with a width of 71 feet, and the dam is regulated, inspected, and enforced by the Michigan DEGLE, ensuring its safe operation and maintenance.

Ray Dam offers a picturesque setting for water resource and climate enthusiasts to explore and appreciate the importance of maintaining and managing dams for both recreational and environmental purposes. With its moderate risk assessment and satisfactory condition, Ray Dam stands as a testament to responsible dam management in the state of Michigan.

Dam Length

235

Dam Height

18

River Or Stream

Tributary to River Rouge

Primary Dam Type

Gravity

Surface Area

4.6

Hydraulic Height

16

Drainage Area

2.6

Nid Storage

50

Structural Height

18

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

18
       
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.