Little Bass Lake Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Little Bass Lake Dam, located in Schoolcraft, Michigan, is a federal-owned structure managed by the Hiawatha National Forest.


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Summary

Completed in 1974, this earth dam serves primarily for recreational purposes, including fish and wildlife pond management. With a height of 11 feet and a length of 50 feet, the dam has a storage capacity of 575 acre-feet and covers a surface area of 71 acres.

The dam, situated on the TR-Indian River, is regulated by the Michigan Department of Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy (DEGLE) and undergoes regular inspections by the Forest Service. Despite its low hazard potential, the dam has a very high risk assessment due to its age and the surrounding environmental factors. In 1996, the dam was modified for hydraulic improvements, and it is equipped with a controlled spillway and other controlled outlet gates.

Although currently in a not-rated condition assessment status, the dam's risk management measures and emergency action plan (EAP) preparedness are not specified. However, with its strategic location and significance for the local ecosystem, Little Bass Lake Dam remains a focal point for water resource and climate enthusiasts seeking to understand the intersection of dam infrastructure, environmental stewardship, and recreational activities in the region.

Years Modified

1996 - Hydraulic

Year Completed

1974

Dam Length

50

Dam Height

11

River Or Stream

TR-INDIAN RIVER

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

71

Hydraulic Height

11

Drainage Area

1

Nid Storage

575

Structural Height

12

Outlet Gates

Other Controlled

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

12
       
Seasonal Comparison

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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.