Blue Lake Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Blue Lake Dam in Gladwin, Michigan, is a private-owned structure regulated by the Michigan Department of Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy.


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Summary

Completed in 1961, this earth dam stands at 17 feet in height and spans 200 feet in length, creating a reservoir with a storage capacity of 220 acre-feet. The dam serves a primary purpose of "Other" and is classified as having a low hazard potential and fair condition assessment.

Located in a tributary to the North Branch Cedar River, Blue Lake Dam contributes to the local water resource management and flood control efforts in the area. With a spillway width of 4 feet and a drainage area of 0.28 square miles, the dam plays a crucial role in regulating water flow and maintaining the stability of the surrounding ecosystem. Despite its moderate risk assessment rating, the dam remains essential for water conservation and environmental protection in the region.

Overall, Blue Lake Dam is a vital component of the water infrastructure in Gladwin, Michigan, providing essential services for the community while being subject to regular state inspection and enforcement. With its strategic location and functional design, the dam continues to contribute to the sustainable management of water resources and climate resilience in the area, ensuring the safety and well-being of local residents and ecosystems for years to come.

Year Completed

1961

Dam Length

200

Dam Height

17

River Or Stream

Tributary to N Br Cedar River

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

33

Hydraulic Height

15

Drainage Area

0.28

Nid Storage

220

Structural Height

17

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

17
       
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.