Gene's Pond Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Located in Hardwood, Michigan, Gene's Pond Dam stands as a vital water resource structure along the East Branch Sturgeon River.


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Summary

Built in 1973 by the USDA NRCS, this earth dam serves primarily for recreational purposes, offering a serene retreat for visitors to enjoy water-based activities. With a height of 27 feet and a length of 3360 feet, the dam boasts a capacity of 9782 acre-feet, providing essential storage for the surrounding area.

Managed by the Michigan DEGLE, Gene's Pond Dam is subject to state regulations and inspections to ensure its structural integrity and operational safety. Despite its low hazard potential and satisfactory condition assessment, the dam is equipped with an uncontrolled spillway with a width of 120 feet to manage excess water flow. While the risk assessment deems the structure as moderate, ongoing risk management measures are in place to address any potential concerns and ensure the safety of the surrounding community.

With its picturesque location and vital role in water management, Gene's Pond Dam serves as a testament to the importance of sustainable infrastructure in balancing recreational enjoyment with environmental conservation. As enthusiasts of water resources and climate advocacy, the preservation and responsible management of structures like Gene's Pond Dam are crucial to maintaining the delicate balance of our natural ecosystems.

Year Completed

1973

Dam Length

3360

Dam Height

27

River Or Stream

East Branch Sturgeon River

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

730

Hydraulic Height

25

Drainage Area

24

Nid Storage

9782

Structural Height

27

Outlet Gates

None

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Rock, Soil

Nid Height

27
       
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.