Duncan Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: Hamlin Dam Thompson Dam
Last Updated: December 5, 2025
Duncan Dam, located in Isabella County, Michigan, is a privately owned structure completed in 1967 primarily for recreational purposes along the Duncan Drain.
°F
°F
mph
Wind
%
Humidity
Summary
With a dam height of 27 feet and a hydraulic height of 24.7 feet, the earth-type dam offers a storage capacity of 472 acre-feet, with a normal storage level of 391 acre-feet across its 900-foot length. The dam's spillway is uncontrolled, with a width of 12 feet, and a low hazard potential has been assessed, with satisfactory condition as of the last inspection in May 2017.
Managed by Michigan's Department of Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy, Duncan Dam presents a moderate risk level according to the Risk Assessment classification. Situated in a scenic location in Clare, Michigan, the dam's surrounding area spans 36 acres, with a drainage area of 0.43 square miles. Despite its private ownership, the dam falls under state jurisdiction for regulation, permitting, inspection, and enforcement, ensuring its compliance with safety standards and protocols. The dam's emergency action plan status and risk management measures are currently undetermined, suggesting potential areas for further development and evaluation to enhance preparedness and safety protocols.
For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Duncan Dam offers a unique recreational opportunity in a picturesque setting, with the potential for further exploration into its structural design, risk management strategies, and environmental impact assessments. As a vital component of the local water infrastructure, the dam serves not only as a recreational site but also as a crucial element in managing water resources in the region. With its rich history and ongoing regulatory oversight, Duncan Dam presents a fascinating case study for those interested in the intersection of water management, climate resilience, and recreational infrastructure.
Year Completed |
1967 |
Dam Length |
900 |
Dam Height |
27 |
River Or Stream |
Duncan Drain |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
36 |
Hydraulic Height |
24.7 |
Drainage Area |
0.43 |
Nid Storage |
472 |
Structural Height |
27 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Nid Height |
27 |
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.
Area Campgrounds
| Location | Reservations | Toilets |
|---|---|---|
Pettit Park
|
||
Herrick Rec Area
|
||
Coldwater Lake Family Park
|
Duncan Dam
Stevenson Lake Boat Launch