Whiskey Creek Dam #2 Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Whiskey Creek Dam #2, located in Pentwater, Michigan, was completed in 1972 and serves primarily for recreational purposes.


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Summary

The 17-foot high earth dam spans 1000 feet along Whiskey Creek, with a storage capacity of 115 acre-feet and a drainage area of 3.2 square miles. With a low hazard potential and moderate risk assessment, this privately owned dam is regulated by the Michigan Department of Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy.

Despite being last inspected in 1994, Whiskey Creek Dam #2 has a generally favorable condition assessment of "Not Rated" and a low risk of failure. The dam features an uncontrolled spillway with a width of 4 feet, and no associated locks or outlet gates. While the emergency action plan status and risk management measures are unclear, the dam's remote location and limited impact on surrounding areas contribute to its low hazard potential.

Water resource and climate enthusiasts interested in Whiskey Creek Dam #2 will appreciate its scenic setting along Whiskey Creek and its role in providing recreational opportunities in the area. With its manageable risk profile and state-regulated status, this dam stands as a testament to responsible water resource management in Michigan.

Year Completed

1972

Dam Length

1000

Dam Height

17

River Or Stream

Whiskey Creek

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

13

Hydraulic Height

17

Drainage Area

3.2

Nid Storage

115

Structural Height

17

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

17
       
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.