Wolf Lake Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Wolf Lake Dam, located in Watersmeet, Michigan, serves as a vital recreational resource within the Gogebic County.


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Summary

Built in 1965, this earth dam stands at a height of 14 feet and stretches over 1400 feet along Wolf Creek, offering a surface area of 375 acres and a drainage area of 3.9 square miles. The dam's primary purpose is to provide recreational opportunities, with a maximum storage capacity of 468 acre-feet and a normal storage level of 338 acre-feet.

Managed by a private owner but regulated by the Michigan Department of Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy (DEGLE), Wolf Lake Dam has a low hazard potential and is deemed to be in satisfactory condition as of its last inspection in July 2017. The spillway, which is controlled and 20 feet wide, helps to manage water flow during periods of high discharge. Despite the dam's low hazard potential, it is classified as having a very high risk due to its location and potential impact on downstream areas. Overall, Wolf Lake Dam stands as a crucial structure for both water resource management and recreational activities in the region, attracting enthusiasts of water and climate alike.

Year Completed

1965

Dam Length

1400

Dam Height

14

River Or Stream

Wolf Creek

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

375

Hydraulic Height

14

Drainage Area

3.9

Nid Storage

468

Structural Height

14

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

14
       
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.
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Area Campgrounds