Presque Isle Wildlife Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Located in Marenisco, Michigan, the Presque Isle Wildlife Dam stands as a vital structure along the West Branch of the Presque Isle River.


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Summary

Built in 1958, this earth dam serves primarily for recreational purposes, providing a surface area of 875 acres for visitors to enjoy. With a height of 13 feet and a controlled spillway width of 84 feet, the dam boasts a low hazard potential and a satisfactory condition assessment.

Managed by the local government and regulated by the Michigan Department of Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy, the dam undergoes regular inspections to ensure its safety and functionality. With a maximum storage capacity of 5,100 acre-feet and a normal storage level of 1,600 acre-feet, the dam plays a crucial role in maintaining the ecosystem of the surrounding area. Despite its low hazard potential, the Presque Isle Wildlife Dam is equipped with necessary risk management measures to mitigate any potential threats.

Water resource and climate enthusiasts will appreciate the unique blend of nature conservation and recreational opportunities offered by the Presque Isle Wildlife Dam. Its strategic location within the Gogebic County in Michigan makes it a key attraction for outdoor enthusiasts seeking to explore the beauty of the West Branch of the Presque Isle River. As a symbol of environmental stewardship and responsible infrastructure management, this dam serves as a vital link between water resource management and community engagement in the region.

Year Completed

1958

Dam Length

412

Dam Height

13

River Or Stream

W Br Presque Isle River

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

875

Hydraulic Height

12

Drainage Area

106

Nid Storage

5100

Structural Height

13

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

13
       
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.