Dingman Marsh Flooding Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

The Dingman Marsh Flooding Dam, located in Mackinaw, Michigan, is a state-regulated structure designed for recreational purposes along Mill Creek.


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Summary

Completed in 1959, this earth dam stands at a height of 10.6 feet with a hydraulic height of 7.5 feet, providing a storage capacity of 5350 acre-feet and a normal storage of 2240 acre-feet. The dam spans 1100 feet in length and has a surface area of 700 acres, serving as a popular spot for outdoor activities in the Cheboygan County area.

Despite its low hazard potential and satisfactory condition assessment as of July 2016, the Dingman Marsh Flooding Dam is subject to regular inspections and enforcement by the Michigan DEGLE. With a moderate risk assessment rating of 3, measures have been put in place to ensure the safety and reliability of this structure for the surrounding community. As an integral part of the local ecosystem and recreational landscape, the dam plays a key role in water resource management and flood control along the Mill Creek watershed.

As climate change continues to impact water resources and infrastructure, the Dingman Marsh Flooding Dam stands as a testament to the importance of sustainable dam operations and maintenance. With its uncontrolled spillway, the dam serves as a vital component of the Detroit District's water management system, ensuring proper discharge and flood protection for the area. As water resource and climate enthusiasts, it is crucial to monitor and support the ongoing efforts to maintain and enhance the resilience of structures like the Dingman Marsh Flooding Dam in the face of changing environmental conditions.

Year Completed

1959

Dam Length

1100

Dam Height

10.6

River Or Stream

Mill Creek

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

700

Hydraulic Height

7.5

Drainage Area

8.6

Nid Storage

5350

Structural Height

10.6

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

11
       
Seasonal Comparison

Weather Forecast

Dam Data Reference

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.