Misteguay Creek 4 Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Misteguay Creek 4 is a privately owned dam located in Saginaw, Michigan, along Misteguay Creek.


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Summary

Constructed in 1967 by the USDA NRCS, this earth dam stands at 39 feet tall and spans 1000 feet in length. Its primary purpose is flood risk reduction, with a storage capacity of 7450 acre-feet and a maximum discharge of 15375 cubic feet per second. The dam's spillway is uncontrolled and measures 400 feet in width, serving as a critical component in managing water flow during periods of high precipitation.

With a hazard potential classified as high and a satisfactory condition assessment as of September 2018, Misteguay Creek 4 presents a moderate risk level that is being actively managed. The dam is regulated, inspected, and permitted by the state of Michigan through the MICHIGAN DEGLE agency, ensuring compliance with safety standards and emergency preparedness measures. While the dam has not undergone recent modifications, its operation and maintenance are crucial in safeguarding the surrounding community and environment from potential flood events.

For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Misteguay Creek 4 offers a fascinating case study in dam infrastructure and flood control. Its strategic location on Misteguay Creek, coupled with its design specifications and regulatory oversight, highlights the intricate balance between water management, public safety, and environmental stewardship. As one of the key structures in the region's flood risk reduction system, Misteguay Creek 4 serves as a testament to the ongoing efforts to mitigate the impact of extreme weather events and safeguard water resources for future generations.

Year Completed

1967

Dam Length

1000

Dam Height

39

River Or Stream

Misteguay Creek

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Hydraulic Height

29

Drainage Area

133

Nid Storage

7450

Structural Height

39

Outlet Gates

None

Hazard Potential

High

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

39
       
Seasonal Comparison

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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.