Molasses River Flooding #3 Dam Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 5, 2025
The Molasses River Flooding #3 Dam, located in Highwood, Michigan, is a state-regulated structure built in 1955 for recreational purposes along the Little Molasses River.
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Summary
This earth dam stands at a height of 12 feet with a hydraulic height of 9.4 feet and a length of 3350 feet, providing storage for up to 4100 acre-feet of water. The dam has a low hazard potential and is currently in satisfactory condition, as per the last inspection in July 2019.
Despite its modest size and low hazard potential, the Molasses River Flooding #3 Dam plays a vital role in the local ecosystem by supporting recreational activities and providing water storage for the surrounding area. The dam's uncontrolled spillway, with a width of 20 feet, ensures that excess water can safely flow out during periods of heavy rainfall, reducing the risk of flooding downstream. The dam's risk assessment is rated as moderate, indicating that ongoing monitoring and maintenance are necessary to ensure its continued safety and functionality.
With its scenic location and importance for water resource management, the Molasses River Flooding #3 Dam serves as a valuable asset for the community of Highwood and the broader Gladwin County, Michigan. Its role in providing recreational opportunities, water storage, and flood protection underscores the importance of maintaining and monitoring this essential infrastructure to support both human and environmental needs in the region.
Year Completed |
1955 |
Dam Length |
3350 |
Dam Height |
12 |
River Or Stream |
Little Molasses River |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
590 |
Hydraulic Height |
9.4 |
Drainage Area |
8.7 |
Nid Storage |
4100 |
Structural Height |
12 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Nid Height |
12 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
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.
Molasses River Flooding #3 Dam