Elmhirst Creek Dam Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 5, 2025
Elmhirst Creek Dam, located in Mackinac County, Michigan, is a Federal-owned structure managed by the Hiawatha National Forest.
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Summary
Completed in 1991, this Earth-type dam stands at a height of 16 feet with a hydraulic height of 13 feet and a structural height of 18 feet. With a primary purpose of serving as a Fish and Wildlife Pond, it has a storage capacity of 580 acre-feet and covers a surface area of 110 acres.
The dam, situated on Elmhirst Creek, plays a crucial role in managing the water resources in the area, with a drainage area of 2 square miles and a maximum discharge capacity of 103 cubic feet per second. It features a controlled spillway with a width of 6 feet and other controlled outlet gates. Despite having a low hazard potential, the dam's risk assessment has been categorized as very high (1), signaling the importance of regular inspections and maintenance to ensure its continued safety and functionality.
Owned, funded, designed, and regulated by the Forest Service, Elmhirst Creek Dam is a notable structure in the region, contributing to environmental conservation and wildlife management efforts. Water resource and climate enthusiasts will find this dam a fascinating example of sustainable infrastructure that supports both ecological and recreational purposes while highlighting the importance of proactive risk management strategies in dam operations.
Year Completed |
1991 |
Dam Length |
356 |
Dam Height |
16 |
River Or Stream |
ELMHIRST CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
110 |
Hydraulic Height |
13 |
Drainage Area |
2 |
Nid Storage |
580 |
Structural Height |
18 |
Outlet Gates |
Other Controlled |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Rock, Soil |
Nid Height |
18 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Black River Near Garnet
|
16cfs |
Tahquamenon River Near Paradise
|
765cfs |
Sturgeon River At Wolverine
|
196cfs |
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.
Elmhirst Creek Dam