Black Creek Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Black Creek Dam, located in Mackinac, Michigan, is a state-owned earth dam primarily used for recreation on Black Creek.


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Summary

Completed in 1956, this dam stands at a height of 10 feet with a hydraulic height of 5 feet and a length of 750 feet. It has a storage capacity of 725 acre-feet and covers a surface area of 820 acres, serving as a popular spot for outdoor enthusiasts.

Despite its low hazard potential and satisfactory condition assessment, Black Creek Dam is identified as having a very high risk level, with a risk rating of 1 out of 5. The dam features a controlled spillway with a width of 30 feet and a maximum discharge capacity of 600 cubic feet per second. The last inspection in 2014 deemed the dam to be in good condition, with a regular inspection frequency of every 5 years.

With its scenic location and recreational opportunities, Black Creek Dam remains a vital part of the local community in Mackinac, Michigan. While it serves primarily for leisure activities, the dam's risk level highlights the importance of ongoing maintenance and monitoring to ensure the safety and integrity of this essential water resource for years to come.

Year Completed

1956

Dam Length

750

Dam Height

10

River Or Stream

Black Creek

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

820

Hydraulic Height

5

Drainage Area

18.9

Nid Storage

725

Structural Height

10

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

10
       
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.