Kissam Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Located in Oskar, Michigan, Kissam Dam is a private-owned structure primarily designed for recreational purposes.


°F

°F

mph

Wind

%

Humidity

Summary

Completed in 1966, this earth-type dam stands at 20 feet high and spans 350 feet in length, with a storage capacity of 100 acre-feet. Situated on a tributary to Schlot Creek, the dam's spillway is uncontrolled and measures 22 feet wide, with a low hazard potential and satisfactory condition assessment as of the last inspection in April 2012.

Managed by the Michigan Department of Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy (DEGLE), Kissam Dam is subject to state regulations, inspections, and enforcement. Despite its moderate risk level, the dam's emergency action plan and risk management measures remain unspecified. The dam's location offers a serene setting for water resource and climate enthusiasts to enjoy recreational activities, with the dam's surface area covering 10 acres and draining a 0.5 square mile watershed.

With its picturesque surroundings and essential role in providing recreational opportunities, Kissam Dam serves as a vital feature in Houghton, Michigan. As visitors explore the dam's tranquil waters and scenic beauty, it is crucial for stakeholders and regulators to continue monitoring and maintaining the structure to ensure its long-term safety and sustainability for future generations of water enthusiasts and climate enthusiasts alike.

Year Completed

1966

Dam Length

350

Dam Height

20

River Or Stream

Tributary to Schlot Creek

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

10

Hydraulic Height

20

Drainage Area

0.5

Nid Storage

100

Structural Height

20

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

20
       
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.