Sage Lake Dam Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 5, 2025
Sage Lake Dam, located in Hillman, Michigan, is a state-regulated earth dam constructed in 1960 primarily for recreational purposes on Sage Creek.
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Summary
With a structural height of 8.5 feet and a hydraulic height of 7.3 feet, the dam has a storage capacity of 384 acre-feet and a drainage area of 5.1 square miles. The spillway, with a width of 11 feet, is uncontrolled, and the dam has a low hazard potential with a satisfactory condition assessment as of July 2016.
Serving as a vital component for water resource management in the area, Sage Lake Dam provides a surface area of 48 acres and a maximum discharge of 60 cubic feet per second. The dam's normal storage capacity is 96 acre-feet, making it an essential structure for maintaining water levels and supporting recreational activities in the region. Despite being state-regulated and inspected, the dam is categorized as having a moderate risk level, emphasizing the importance of ongoing monitoring and risk management measures to ensure its continued safety and functionality.
With its picturesque location and significance for both water resource management and recreation, Sage Lake Dam stands as a notable earth dam in Montmorency County, Michigan. Managed by the state regulatory agency MICHIGAN DEGLE, the dam's satisfactory condition, low hazard potential, and moderate risk level highlight the balance between its recreational benefits and the need for careful monitoring and risk assessment. As an integral part of the local water infrastructure, Sage Lake Dam remains a key asset for both residents and climate enthusiasts interested in sustainable water resource management practices.
Year Completed |
1960 |
Dam Length |
200 |
Dam Height |
8.5 |
River Or Stream |
Sage Creek |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
48 |
Hydraulic Height |
7.3 |
Drainage Area |
5.1 |
Nid Storage |
384 |
Structural Height |
8.5 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Nid Height |
9 |
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.
Avery Lake State Forest Campground
Little Wolf Lake State Forest Campground
Muskrat Lake Campground
Big Bear Lake State Forest Campground
Sage Lake Dam