The primary purposes of the dam and lake are flood control and hydroelectric power production, although supply of drinking water to local communities, as well as recreation, are additional benefits.

[4] The project was authorized by the Flood Control Act of 1941 and construction began the next year.

In June 1949, the river was closed and the entire project was complete in September 1953 with the operation of the last of the power plant's four generators.

[5] Rights to construct the project originally belonged to the Grand River Dam Authority, but were seized by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers in 1946.

[6] [7] First Contract: Al Johnson construction co. Winston brothers co. peter kiewit sons co. 608 Foshay Tower.