Denton Creek Flooding Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: Lake James Dam Backus Lake Dam
Last Updated: December 5, 2025
Denton Creek Flooding Dam, located in Prudenville, Michigan, is a state-regulated earth dam completed in 1954 for recreation purposes along Denton Creek.
°F
°F
mph
Wind
%
Humidity
Summary
With a structural height of 11 feet and a hydraulic height of 9.2 feet, this dam has a capacity of 18,000 acre-feet and a maximum discharge of 820 cubic feet per second. The dam covers a surface area of 270 acres and serves a drainage area of 14.5 square miles.
Despite its fair condition assessment, Denton Creek Flooding Dam poses a significant hazard potential due to its uncontrolled spillway type and a spillway width of 321 feet. The dam's risk assessment is moderate, and it is subject to inspections every four years to ensure its safety and functionality. The dam's emergency action plan was last revised in 2009, and further risk management measures are yet to be implemented.
As a key infrastructure along Denton Creek, this dam plays a crucial role in water resource management and flood control in the region. Its significance lies in providing recreational opportunities while mitigating potential risks associated with flooding and water discharge. Continued maintenance and monitoring are essential to ensure the safety and effectiveness of Denton Creek Flooding Dam for the community and the environment.
Year Completed |
1954 |
Dam Length |
250 |
Dam Height |
11 |
River Or Stream |
Denton Creek |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
270 |
Hydraulic Height |
9.2 |
Drainage Area |
14.5 |
Nid Storage |
18000 |
Structural Height |
11 |
Hazard Potential |
Significant |
Nid Height |
11 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Dam Data Reference
Condition Assessment
SatisfactoryNo 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
HighDams 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.
Denton Creek Flooding Dam