Dog Lake Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Dog Lake Dam, located in Tower, Michigan, is a state-owned structure built in 1957 primarily for recreational purposes.


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Summary

It stands at a height of 6.5 feet and has a hydraulic height of 5.2 feet, with a reservoir capacity of 1870 acre-feet. The dam, constructed of earth and gravity, spans a length of 620 feet and serves as a popular spot for water enthusiasts seeking activities such as fishing, boating, and wildlife observation.

Situated on McMasters Creek, Dog Lake Dam has a low hazard potential and is currently deemed to be in fair condition. With a drainage area of 3.1 square miles and a maximum discharge capacity of 70 cubic feet per second, this dam plays a crucial role in water resource management in the Cheboygan County area. Despite being uncontrolled, the spillway width of 12 feet ensures efficient water flow during heavy rainfall events while maintaining safety standards for nearby communities.

Although not under state jurisdiction or regulation, Dog Lake Dam remains a key feature in the region's landscape, offering both recreational opportunities and essential water management functions. With its moderate risk assessment standing at a level 3, this dam is monitored regularly to ensure its structural integrity and overall safety for visitors and residents alike.

Year Completed

1957

Dam Length

620

Dam Height

6.5

River Or Stream

McMasters Creek

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

520

Hydraulic Height

5.2

Drainage Area

3.1

Nid Storage

1870

Structural Height

6.5

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

7
       
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.