Oak Grove Millpond Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Located in Oak Grove, Michigan, the Oak Grove Millpond Dam stands as a historic structure that was completed in 1850.


°F

°F

mph

Wind

%

Humidity

Summary

With a primary purpose of recreation, this earth dam spans 300 feet in length and reaches a height of 20 feet, creating a reservoir with a storage capacity of 430 acre-feet. Situated on Bogue Creek, the dam's controlled spillway has a width of 16 feet and a maximum discharge capacity of 1400 cubic feet per second, serving as a vital component for managing water flow in the area.

The dam, which is privately owned and state-regulated by the MICHIGAN DEGLE, poses a significant hazard potential due to its age and condition being labeled as "Not Rated." Despite being inspected last in January 1997, the dam's risk assessment is categorized as very high, warranting attention and potentially necessitating risk management measures to ensure the safety and stability of the structure. The surrounding area, with a drainage area of 35.35 square miles, relies on the Oak Grove Millpond Dam for recreational activities and water resource management, highlighting its importance within the local ecosystem.

As water resource and climate enthusiasts delve into the details of the Oak Grove Millpond Dam, its historical significance and current condition spark interest and concern. With a risk assessment indicating a high level of vulnerability, the dam's role in water storage and flow regulation underscores the need for continued monitoring and potential upgrades to mitigate any potential hazards. As stakeholders collaborate to address the dam's risk factors and ensure its long-term sustainability, the Oak Grove Millpond Dam remains a focal point for water resource management in Livingston County, Michigan.

Year Completed

1850

Dam Length

300

Dam Height

20

River Or Stream

Bogue Creek

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

49

Hydraulic Height

20

Drainage Area

35.35

Nid Storage

430

Structural Height

20

Hazard Potential

Significant

Nid Height

20
       
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.