Cooke Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Cooke is a historic hydroelectric dam located on the scenic Au Sable River in Oscoda, Michigan.


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Summary

Built in 1912, this gravity dam stands at a height of 50 feet and has a structural height of 46 feet, with a capacity to store 30,000 acre-feet of water. The dam serves multiple purposes, including hydroelectric power generation and recreation, making it a vital resource for the local community.

Managed by the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission, Cooke Dam has a controlled spillway width of 72 feet and can discharge up to 20,948 cubic feet per second. With a hazard potential rated as high and a very high risk assessment, the dam's safety and maintenance are closely monitored. Despite its age, Cooke Dam continues to play a significant role in water resource management and climate resilience efforts in the region.

As a public utility, Cooke Dam not only provides clean energy but also offers recreational opportunities for visitors to enjoy the surrounding area. Its location within the Buffalo District and the stewardship of the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission ensure that the dam's operations meet strict regulatory standards. For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Cooke Dam stands as a testament to sustainable hydroelectric power generation and the importance of maintaining critical infrastructure in the face of changing environmental conditions.

Year Completed

1912

Dam Length

900

Dam Height

50

River Or Stream

Au Sable River

Primary Dam Type

Gravity

Surface Area

1700

Hydraulic Height

40

Drainage Area

1641

Nid Storage

30000

Structural Height

46

Outlet Gates

Tainter (radial) - 3

Hazard Potential

High

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

50
       
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.
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Area Campgrounds

Location Reservations Toilets
Cooke                                                            070D Preview 070D
Cooke                                                            071D Preview 071D
Cooke                                                            085W Preview 085W
Cooke                                                            087W Preview 087W
Cooke                                                            088D Preview 088D
Cooke                                                            091 Preview 091