Kelly Lake Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: Schumacher Dam #2 Mandeville Dam
Last Updated: December 5, 2025
Kelly Lake Dam, also known as Bunting Dam, is a private-owned structure located in Sages Lake Development, Michigan.
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Summary
Completed in 1980, this earth dam stands at a height of 16 feet, serving primarily for recreational purposes. It holds a storage capacity of 95 acre-feet, with a normal storage level of 55 acre-feet and a surface area of 9 acres. The dam is situated on TR-Au Gres Creek and is regulated by the Michigan Department of Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy (DEGLE).
Despite being classified as low hazard potential with a satisfactory condition assessment, Kelly Lake Dam poses a very high risk according to a risk assessment, reflecting the importance of proper maintenance and management. The dam features a controlled spillway with a width of 5 feet and a maximum discharge of 8 cubic feet per second. The last inspection was conducted in October 2013, with an inspection frequency of every 5 years. The dam is located in Ogemaw County, Michigan, and falls under the Buffalo District of the US Army Corps of Engineers.
Water resource and climate enthusiasts interested in Kelly Lake Dam will find its unique features and risk assessment intriguing. The dam's role in recreational activities, its regulatory oversight by state agencies, and its potential impact on the surrounding area make it a significant focal point for environmental and safety considerations. As a privately owned structure, the responsibility for maintaining and managing Kelly Lake Dam rests with its owners, highlighting the importance of ongoing monitoring and adherence to safety protocols to ensure the integrity of the dam and the protection of the community downstream.
Year Completed |
1980 |
Dam Length |
65 |
Dam Height |
16 |
River Or Stream |
TR-Au Gres Creek |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
9 |
Hydraulic Height |
16 |
Drainage Area |
0.2 |
Nid Storage |
95 |
Structural Height |
16 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Nid Height |
16 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Au Sable River Near Curtisville
|
937cfs |
Au Sable River Near Mc Kinley
|
931cfs |
Au Sable River At Mio
|
745cfs |
Rifle River Near Sterling
|
210cfs |
Au Sable River Near Red Oak
|
633cfs |
Au Sable River Near Au Sable
|
991cfs |
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.
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