Rugg Pond Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Rugg Pond Dam, located in Rapid City, Michigan, is a local government-owned structure that serves primarily for recreational purposes.


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Summary

Built in 1904, this earth dam stands at a height of 24 feet and spans a length of 685 feet along the Rapid River. With a storage capacity of 160 acre-feet, it covers a surface area of 17 acres and has a drainage area of 56.7 square miles.

Despite its fair condition assessment in 2019, the dam poses a high hazard potential, with a very high risk ranking of 1. The controlled spillway with a width of 17 feet helps manage water flow, but the dam lacks outlet gates and associated structures. The dam's hazard potential and risk ranking suggest the importance of regular inspections and maintenance to ensure its safety and functionality.

Furthermore, the dam is under state regulation and jurisdiction, with the Michigan Department of Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy (DEGLE) overseeing permitting, inspection, and enforcement. The dam's location in Kalkaska County, Michigan, and its association with the Rapid River make it a significant feature in the area's water resource management and climate resilience efforts. Enthusiasts interested in water resources and climate change can appreciate the intricate details and potential challenges posed by the Rugg Pond Dam.

Year Completed

1904

Dam Length

685

Dam Height

24

River Or Stream

Rapid River

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

17

Hydraulic Height

22.5

Drainage Area

56.7

Nid Storage

160

Structural Height

24

Hazard Potential

High

Nid Height

24
       
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.