Bottom Creek Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: Twin Lakes Dam Barnes Lake Dam
Last Updated: December 5, 2025
Bottom Creek Dam, located in North Branch, Michigan, is a privately owned earth dam with a primary purpose of recreation.
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Summary
Completed in 1972, this dam stands at a height of 20 feet and stretches 750 feet in length, creating a maximum storage capacity of 1050 acre-feet. The dam, situated on Bottom Creek, serves as a popular spot for outdoor enthusiasts to enjoy various recreational activities such as fishing, boating, and birdwatching.
Despite its significant hazard potential, Bottom Creek Dam has been assessed as satisfactory in condition, with the last inspection conducted in May 2018. The dam features an uncontrolled spillway with a width of 80 feet, capable of handling a maximum discharge of 980 cubic feet per second. With a drainage area of 12.9 square miles and a surface area of 64 acres, this dam plays a crucial role in managing water resources and maintaining the ecological balance of the surrounding area.
The risk assessment for Bottom Creek Dam is moderate, with a rating of 3 on the scale. While the dam meets regulatory guidelines and undergoes regular inspections, there are no specific risk management measures or emergency action plans documented for this structure. As water resource and climate enthusiasts continue to monitor the impact of dams on the environment, Bottom Creek Dam serves as a valuable asset for both recreational activities and water management in the region.
Year Completed |
1972 |
Dam Length |
750 |
Dam Height |
20 |
River Or Stream |
Bottom Creek |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
64 |
Hydraulic Height |
20 |
Drainage Area |
12.9 |
Nid Storage |
1050 |
Structural Height |
20 |
Hazard Potential |
Significant |
Nid Height |
20 |
Seasonal Comparison
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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.
Bottom Creek Dam