Rhoads Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Rhoads Dam, located in Oscoda, Michigan, along Gilchrist Creek, was completed in 1900 and primarily serves as a recreational area for water enthusiasts.


°F

°F

mph

Wind

%

Humidity

Summary

The dam is privately owned and maintained, with state regulation and inspection to ensure its safety and compliance. Standing at a height of 9 feet and stretching 200 feet in length, Rhoads Dam has a storage capacity of 120 acre-feet and a surface area of 22 acres.

Despite being classified as having a low hazard potential, Rhoads Dam is subject to regular inspections every 5 years to assess its condition and risk level. The dam features an uncontrolled spillway with a width of 5 feet and a maximum discharge capacity of 25 cubic feet per second. The risk assessment for Rhoads Dam indicates a moderate level of risk, emphasizing the importance of ongoing monitoring and risk management measures to ensure the safety of the surrounding area in the event of an emergency.

While there have been no recent condition assessments or emergency action plans prepared for Rhoads Dam, its moderate risk level underscores the need for continued vigilance and maintenance. With its scenic location and recreational opportunities, Rhoads Dam remains a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts, highlighting the importance of balancing enjoyment with safety and risk management in the face of changing climate conditions.

Year Completed

1900

Dam Length

200

Dam Height

9

River Or Stream

Gilchrist Creek

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

22

Hydraulic Height

9

Drainage Area

3.6

Nid Storage

120

Structural Height

9

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

9
       
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.