Copemish Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

The Copemish Dam, located in Manistee, Michigan, on First Creek, was completed in 1950 with a primary purpose of recreation.


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Summary

The dam is classified as an Earth dam type, standing at 10 feet in height with a length of 600 feet. It has a storage capacity of 180 acre-feet and a surface area of 40 acres, making it a significant feature in the area for water resource and climate enthusiasts.

Despite being designated as having a low hazard potential, the Copemish Dam is considered to have a very high risk due to its condition assessment being marked as "Not Rated". The dam does not have an Emergency Action Plan (EAP) in place, raising concerns about its ability to respond to potential emergencies. The risk management measures for the dam are currently unspecified, underscoring the need for increased vigilance and proactive maintenance to ensure the safety and integrity of this vital water resource infrastructure.

With a controlled spillway type and a relatively small spillway width of 6 feet, the Copemish Dam presents unique challenges in managing water discharge and potential flooding events. As a focal point for recreation in the area, the dam plays a crucial role in providing water-based activities and enhancing the natural beauty of the surrounding landscape. However, the lack of recent inspections and assessments highlights the importance of ongoing monitoring and maintenance to safeguard the dam and its surrounding environment for future generations.

Year Completed

1950

Dam Length

600

Dam Height

10

River Or Stream

First Creek

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

40

Hydraulic Height

10

Nid Storage

180

Structural Height

10

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

10
       
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.