Big Lake Level Control Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

The Big Lake Level Control Dam in Osceola, Michigan, is a privately owned structure that plays a crucial role in managing water resources in the area.


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Summary

Completed in 1982, this dam has a hydraulic height of 10.5 feet and a Normal Storage capacity of 550 acre-feet, with a total storage capacity of 1100 acre-feet. It is regulated by the Michigan Department of Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy (DEGLE), ensuring that it meets state standards for inspection, enforcement, and permitting.

Situated on a tributary to Thorn Creek, the Big Lake Level Control Dam helps to regulate water levels and maintain the ecological balance in the region. With a low hazard potential and a moderate risk assessment rating, this dam is an essential piece of infrastructure for water resource management. While it does not have a spillway, it effectively controls the flow of water to prevent flooding and maintain water quality for the surrounding area.

Despite not being federally owned, the Big Lake Level Control Dam is an important asset for the community, providing essential water management services. With its strategic location and effective design, this dam serves as a critical tool for climate enthusiasts and water resource managers alike, showcasing the importance of localized infrastructure in addressing climate change and ensuring sustainable water use for future generations.

Year Completed

1982

River Or Stream

Tributary to Thorn Creek

Primary Dam Type

Other

Surface Area

210

Hydraulic Height

10.5

Nid Storage

1100

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

11
       
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.