Peters Bayou Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Peters Bayou Dam, also known as the Manistee Game Area Dam, is a state-owned structure located in Manistee, Michigan along the Manistee River.


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Summary

Built in 1969, this earth dam stands at a height of 12 feet with a hydraulic height of 7.5 feet and a length of 5400 feet. It serves a variety of purposes beyond flood control, with a normal storage capacity of 10 acre-feet and a maximum storage of 595 acre-feet.

The dam has a low hazard potential and is classified as being in satisfactory condition as of the last assessment in September 2020. It is regulated, permitted, inspected, and enforced by the Michigan Department of Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy (DEGLE). The risk assessment for Peters Bayou Dam is moderate, with a rating of 3 out of 5, indicating a need for ongoing monitoring and management measures to ensure its continued safety and functionality.

Located in a picturesque setting within the Manistee Game Area, Peters Bayou Dam provides not only flood protection but also recreational opportunities for visitors. With its serene surroundings and important role in water resource management, the dam serves as a noteworthy landmark for water resource and climate enthusiasts interested in the ecological and engineering aspects of dam infrastructure.

Year Completed

1969

Dam Length

5400

Dam Height

12

River Or Stream

Manistee River

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

80

Hydraulic Height

7.5

Drainage Area

0.15

Nid Storage

595

Structural Height

12

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

12
       
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.