Duncan Lake Creek Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Duncan Lake Creek Dam, located in La Barge, Michigan, is a private earth dam that spans 200 feet in length and stands at a height of 8 feet.


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Summary

The dam's primary purpose is classified as "Other," with a storage capacity of 1170 acre-feet and a normal storage level of 520 acre-feet. The dam is situated on Duncan Creek and serves as a crucial water resource for the surrounding area.

Despite being categorized as having a low hazard potential, Duncan Lake Creek Dam is considered to have a high risk level, with a risk assessment rating of 2. The condition of the dam is currently not rated, with the last inspection date noted as January 1, 1901. Additionally, the dam does not have an Emergency Action Plan (EAP) in place, and there is limited information available regarding risk management measures and inundation maps prepared for potential emergencies. As a key infrastructure in the region, ensuring the safety and integrity of Duncan Lake Creek Dam is essential for water resource and climate enthusiasts.

With a unique design and historical significance, Duncan Lake Creek Dam stands as a vital structure in the water management system of Barry County, Michigan. Although lacking recent assessment data and emergency preparedness measures, the dam's role in regulating water flow and providing storage capacity highlights its importance in maintaining the local ecosystem and water resources. As discussions surrounding climate change and water conservation continue to evolve, understanding the condition and potential risks associated with Duncan Lake Creek Dam is crucial for stakeholders and enthusiasts interested in sustainable water resource management.

Dam Length

200

Dam Height

8

River Or Stream

Duncan Creek

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

130

Nid Storage

1170

Structural Height

8

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

8
       
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.