Pease Creek Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Pease Creek Dam, also known as Big Rock Lake Dam, is a privately-owned structure located in Newaygo County, Michigan.


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Summary

Constructed in 1965 by USDA NRCS, this earth dam stands at a height of 16 feet and has a length of 350 feet. The primary purpose of Pease Creek Dam is for recreation, with a normal storage capacity of 102 acre-feet and a maximum discharge of 620 cubic feet per second.

Despite its low hazard potential and satisfactory condition assessment, Pease Creek Dam is regulated by the Michigan Department of Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy, with regular inspections and enforcement in place. The dam's spillway type is uncontrolled, with a width of 4 feet, and it is situated along the Pease Creek river. In the event of an emergency, the risk assessment for Pease Creek Dam is considered moderate, with a risk management plan currently in place.

Water resource and climate enthusiasts will find Pease Creek Dam a fascinating structure to study, given its historical significance and ecological impact in the region. With its serene location in Baldwin, Michigan, and its vital role in providing recreational opportunities and managing water resources, Pease Creek Dam serves as a prime example of the intersection between human infrastructure and natural ecosystems in the face of changing climate dynamics.

Year Completed

1965

Dam Length

350

Dam Height

16

River Or Stream

Pease Creek

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

16

Hydraulic Height

16

Drainage Area

7.8

Nid Storage

179

Structural Height

16

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

16
       
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.