Morris Lake Dam Reservoir Report
Last Updated: January 12, 2026
Morris Lake Dam, also known as West Branch Steel Company Dam, is a private dam located in Ogemaw County, Michigan.
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Summary
Built in 1965, this earth dam stands at a height of 21 feet and spans a length of 350 feet, with a primary purpose of providing recreational opportunities for visitors. Situated on a tributary to Parren Creek, the dam has a normal storage capacity of 124 acre-feet and a maximum discharge rate of 430 cubic feet per second.
Despite being classified as having a low hazard potential and a satisfactory condition assessment as of the last inspection in September 2018, Morris Lake Dam is regulated by the Michigan Department of Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy. With a moderate risk assessment rating of 3, the dam poses some potential risks that are managed through unspecified risk management measures. The dam features an uncontrolled spillway with a width of 53 feet and has not been modified in recent years, indicating a stable structure that continues to serve its recreational purpose in Bomanville, Michigan.
Water resource and climate enthusiasts interested in Morris Lake Dam can appreciate its role in providing recreational opportunities while being regulated and inspected by the state. The dam's historical significance, moderate risk assessment, and satisfactory condition assessment offer a glimpse into the ongoing management and maintenance efforts to ensure the safety and functionality of this earth dam in Ogemaw County. With a focus on public safety and environmental stewardship, Morris Lake Dam stands as a testament to the intersection of human infrastructure and natural resources in the Michigan landscape.
Year Completed |
1965 |
Dam Length |
350 |
Dam Height |
21 |
River Or Stream |
Tributary to Parren Creek |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
15 |
Hydraulic Height |
21 |
Drainage Area |
0.3 |
Nid Storage |
181 |
Structural Height |
21 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Nid Height |
21 |
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.
Morris Lake Dam