Marsh Creek Pool Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Marsh Creek Pool Dam, located in Schoolcraft, Michigan, is a federal-owned structure designed by the USDA Bureau of Agricultural Engineering in 1937.


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Summary

The dam, standing at 10 feet high with a length of 28,800 feet, serves as a Fish and Wildlife Pond on Marsh Creek. It is regulated and inspected by the Michigan Department of Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy, with a low hazard potential but rated as in poor condition during its last assessment in 2018. Despite its age, the dam plays a crucial role in managing water resources in the area, with a storage capacity of 16,406 acre-feet and a controlled spillway to handle a maximum discharge of 1,860 cubic feet per second.

The dam has been modified in 1960 for structural improvements, and its primary purpose remains the support of fish and wildlife habitat in the region. With a very high risk rating of 1, there are no Emergency Action Plans in place, and the condition assessment raises concerns about its current state. Although the dam is not managed by the US Army Corps of Engineers, its significance in the local ecosystem and water management cannot be overstated. As climate change continues to impact water resources, the maintenance and monitoring of structures like Marsh Creek Pool Dam are essential for sustainable environmental stewardship and the protection of wildlife in the area.

Years Modified

1960 - Structural

Year Completed

1937

Dam Length

28800

Dam Height

10

River Or Stream

MARSH CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Hydraulic Height

8

Drainage Area

67.3

Nid Storage

16406

Structural Height

9

Outlet Gates

Other Controlled

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Soil

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.