Baker Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: Frayer Dam Secord Dam
Last Updated: December 5, 2025
Baker Dam, also known as Baker Pond Dam, is a private recreational structure located in Gladwin, Michigan, near the city of White Star.
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Summary
Built in 1962 by the USDA NRCS, this earth dam stands at a height of 19 feet and stretches 130 feet in length, creating a reservoir with a storage capacity of 83 acre-feet. The dam serves the primary purpose of recreation, offering opportunities for fishing, boating, and other water-based activities on the Wheeler Drain.
Despite being privately owned, Baker Dam is subject to state regulation, inspection, and enforcement by the Michigan Department of Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy. The dam has a low hazard potential and is assessed to be in satisfactory condition as of the last inspection in July 2005. With a moderate risk rating, the dam's emergency action plan status and risk management measures remain unspecified, highlighting the importance of ongoing monitoring and maintenance to ensure the safety and stability of the structure for both recreational users and the surrounding community.
Situated in a scenic area with a surface area of 7 acres and a drainage area of 3 square miles, Baker Dam provides a tranquil retreat for water resource and climate enthusiasts to enjoy nature and outdoor activities. The uncontrolled spillway and moderate maximum discharge of 90 cubic feet per second contribute to the dam's overall functionality, while its location in the Detroit District adds to its regional significance. As a testament to the intersection of human engineering and natural ecosystems, Baker Dam offers a compelling study in the balance between water resource management and recreational enjoyment in the Michigan landscape.
Year Completed |
1962 |
Dam Length |
130 |
Dam Height |
19 |
River Or Stream |
Wheeler Drain |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
7 |
Hydraulic Height |
19 |
Drainage Area |
3 |
Nid Storage |
83 |
Structural Height |
19 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Nid Height |
19 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
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 |
|---|---|---|
Gladwin City Park
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Trout Lake State Forest Campground
|
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House Lake State Forest Campground
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Baker Dam