Brush Creek Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Brush Creek Dam, also known as Cooks Dam, is a local government-owned structure located in Hillman, Michigan.


°F

°F

mph

Wind

%

Humidity

Summary

Built in 1930, this earth dam stands at a height of 12.8 feet and serves primarily for recreational purposes, providing a storage capacity of 350 acre-feet. Situated on Brush Creek, the dam boasts a controlled spillway with a width of 14 feet, ensuring efficient water flow management.

Despite its low hazard potential and satisfactory condition assessment, Brush Creek Dam is under the regulatory jurisdiction of the Michigan Department of Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy (DEGLE). The dam underwent its last inspection in August 2016, with a scheduled frequency of every five years. With a very high risk assessment ranking, the dam is closely monitored to ensure public safety and prevent any potential incidents.

Brush Creek Dam's location in Montmorency County makes it a valuable asset for water resource and climate enthusiasts. Its presence not only supports recreational activities but also plays a crucial role in flood control and water management in the region. With a rich history dating back to the early 20th century, the dam continues to be a significant feature in Michigan's landscape, showcasing the importance of sustainable infrastructure for both human and environmental well-being.

Year Completed

1930

Dam Length

100

Dam Height

12.8

River Or Stream

Brush Creek

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

6

Hydraulic Height

11.8

Drainage Area

27.5

Nid Storage

350

Structural Height

12.8

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.