Lake Lapeer Dam Improvements

A dam safety inspection of the Lake Lapeer Dam revealed several deficiencies. Some of the observed deficiencies were erosion along the plunge pool and inadequate spillway capacity. Spicer Group assisted the Lapeer County Drain Commissioner in explaining the dam deficiencies to the lake association and presented a conceptual design recommendation along with cost estimates.

Hydraulic computer modeling was used to design a cost-effective spillway adequate to convey the 200-year design storm and reduce the flashiness of the lake level. In addition, a dam-breach model was developed to indicate downstream impacts for the Emergency Action Plan. The design utilizes Armorflex concrete blocks as an emergency spillway and heavy riprap along the plunge pool area. The surrounding landowners will notice less than two inches of lake level fluctuation during small storm events. A Michigan Department of Environmental Quality Dam Safety Permit was obtained and issued.