Lake Lansing

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Lake Lansing is a 461-acre lake in Haslett, Michigan, a few miles northeast of Lansing. It was once called Pine Lake and was renamed Lake Lansing in 1930. The lake is about 1.2 miles long and 1 mile wide, with a maximum depth of 34 feet and an elevation around 852 feet.

In the northwest, a dam and level-control structure regulate discharge to the Pine Lake Outlet Drain. It includes a 6-foot-high gravity low-head dam, a 93-foot-wide spillway, and a 24-inch drawdown pipe. Stoplogs are placed on the spillway in summer to keep the lake higher. A 2003 court order sets the summer level at 852.29 feet and the winter level at 851.72 feet. The current structures were completed in 1976. In 2022 an inspection found the drawdown pipe inoperable, and an alternatives analysis was completed in 2023.

Dredging in 1978 helped restore the lake after it declined in popularity. About 280 homes surround the lake, and two sailing clubs have property on the water. A special assessment district funds weed control, phosphorus-free fertilization, goose management, and safety efforts. The Lake Lansing Property Owners Association coordinates safety, riparian rights, and community communication.

Recreational groups include the Lansing Sailing Club, which runs racing and day sailing plus learn-to-sail programs, and the Michigan State University Sailing Center, which offers learn-to-sail classes and memberships.

Three public parks serve visitors: Lake Lansing Park South, which has a band shell, boat rental, fishing dock, swimming beach, bath house, beach, volleyball courts, snack bar, horseshoes, picnics, and shelters; Lake Lansing Park North, a 530-acre park with trails, playgrounds, and picnic areas; and the Lake Lansing Boat Launch on the north side, with two ramps, a picnic area, basketball court, powerboat washer, and paved parking. Alcohol is prohibited in all parks.

Lake Lansing is home to several fish species, including largemouth bass, smallmouth bass, northern pike, carp, crappie, bluegill, redear sunfish, perch, and various catfish.