Summary
With a structural height of 30 feet and a length of 300 feet, this dam offers storage of up to 51 acre-feet of water, creating a surface area of 4 acres for outdoor enthusiasts to enjoy. Despite its low hazard potential and not being regulated by the state, Sleepy Dam has not been inspected since April 1992, prompting questions about its current condition.
While the dam's risk assessment is rated at a high level (2), the lack of recent inspections and condition assessments raises concerns about its overall safety and maintenance. With a spillway width of 12 feet and no outlet gates or locks, Sleepy Dam's emergency action plan readiness and compliance with guidelines remain unknown. As climate change continues to impact water resources and infrastructure, the need for regular inspections, risk management measures, and emergency preparedness at Sleepy Dam becomes increasingly vital to ensure the safety of nearby communities and the environment.
As water resource and climate enthusiasts, the unique characteristics and potential risks associated with Sleepy Dam along Sleepy Creek in Houghton, Michigan, serve as a reminder of the importance of proactive dam management and maintenance in the face of changing environmental conditions. With its serene location and recreational significance, efforts to assess and address the dam's condition, emergency preparedness, and risk management measures are essential to safeguarding both the dam's integrity and the surrounding ecosystems for future generations to enjoy.
Dam Length |
300 |
Dam Height |
30 |
River Or Stream |
Sleepy Creek |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
4 |
Hydraulic Height |
30 |
Drainage Area |
4.9 |
Nid Storage |
51 |
Structural Height |
30 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Nid Height |
30 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Sturgeon River Near Alston
|
293cfs |
Ontonagon River Near Rockland
|
1100cfs |
Sturgeon River Near Sidnaw
|
227cfs |
Silver River Near L'Anse
|
156cfs |
Bond Falls Canal Near Paulding
|
91cfs |
West Branch Ontonagon River Near Bergland
|
169cfs |
Dam Data Reference
Condition Assessment
SatisfactoryNo 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
HighDams 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.
Area Campgrounds
| Location | Reservations | Toilets |
|---|---|---|
Emily Lake State Forest Campground
|
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Emily Lake State Forest
|
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Courtney Lake
|
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Courtney Lake Campground
|
Sleepy Dam
Clear Lake Access Road Elm River Township