Charlyle Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Charlyle Dam, located in Sterling, Michigan, along Parmalee Creek, is a privately owned earth dam primarily used for recreation.


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Summary

Completed in 1957, the dam stands at a height of 17 feet and has a length of 336 feet. With a storage capacity of 180 acre-feet, the dam covers a surface area of 21 acres and has a maximum discharge of 210 cubic feet per second. Despite being classified as having a low hazard potential, the dam is regularly inspected by the Michigan DEGLE and has been deemed to be in satisfactory condition as of the last assessment in 2017.

Managed by a private owner, Charlyle Dam offers recreational opportunities for visitors in the area. The dam's spillway is uncontrolled with a width of 4 feet, providing an additional element of interest to those who enjoy observing water flow dynamics. The risk assessment for the dam is categorized as moderate, indicating a certain level of potential risk that is actively managed through appropriate measures. While the dam does not have a USACE association, it continues to be a focal point for water resource and climate enthusiasts interested in monitoring its condition and functionality.

Overall, Charlyle Dam is a significant feature in the water infrastructure of Arenac County, Michigan, providing both recreational benefits and a source of interest for those passionate about water resource management and climate resilience. Its location along Parmalee Creek and its role in regulating water flow make it a valuable asset that contributes to the overall environmental landscape of the region. With regular inspections and satisfactory condition assessments, the dam serves as a testament to responsible ownership and management practices in ensuring the safety and functionality of water structures in the area.

Year Completed

1957

Dam Length

336

Dam Height

17

River Or Stream

Parmalee Creek

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

21

Hydraulic Height

17

Drainage Area

2.3

Nid Storage

180

Structural Height

17

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

17
       
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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.