Windward Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Windward Dam, located in Harbor Springs, Michigan, is a private earth dam completed in 1989 primarily for recreational purposes.


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Summary

Standing at a height of 22 feet with a hydraulic height of 21 feet, the dam spans 220 feet in length and has a storage capacity of 16 acre-feet. The dam is situated on a tributary to Lake Michigan, with a drainage area of 0.2 square miles and a maximum discharge capacity of 35 cubic feet per second.

Despite being privately owned, Windward Dam is not regulated or inspected by state agencies, with no state jurisdiction or permitting requirements. The dam poses a significant hazard potential and has a moderate risk assessment rating. Although the condition assessment is not rated, the dam has not been inspected since June 1990, with an inspection frequency of 4 years.

For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Windward Dam offers a fascinating case study on the management of private dams for recreational purposes. The dam's uncontrolled spillway, moderate risk assessment, and lack of recent inspections highlight the need for continued monitoring and maintenance to ensure the safety and integrity of the structure. As it stands in a picturesque location near Lake Michigan, Windward Dam serves as a reminder of the importance of responsible dam ownership and maintenance in safeguarding water resources and surrounding ecosystems.

Year Completed

1989

Dam Length

220

Dam Height

22

River Or Stream

Tributary to Lake Michigan

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

2

Hydraulic Height

21

Drainage Area

0.2

Nid Storage

16

Structural Height

22

Hazard Potential

Significant

Nid Height

22
       
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.