Varvil Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: January 12, 2026

Varvil Dam, also known as Lake Dana Dam, is a privately owned structure located in Marquette, Michigan.


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Summary

Built in 1966 by the USDA NRCS, this earth dam stands at a height of 20 feet and stretches 160 feet in length. Its primary purpose is for recreation, with a storage capacity of 75 acre-feet and a surface area of 15 acres.

Situated on Sawmill Creek, Varvil Dam is regulated by the Michigan DEGLE and undergoes regular inspections to ensure its safety and compliance with state regulations. With a low hazard potential and a moderate risk assessment rating, this dam provides valuable recreational opportunities while also managing water resources in the area. Despite its age, the dam's condition is currently not rated, highlighting the need for ongoing maintenance and risk management measures to safeguard its long-term functionality and safety for both the environment and local community.

Although Varvil Dam does not have associated federal agency involvement, its presence plays a crucial role in the local ecosystem and recreational activities. With its uncontrolled spillway type and moderate risk assessment, it serves as a reminder of the importance of proper dam management and maintenance in ensuring the sustainable use of water resources amidst a changing climate.(Collectors please fact-check).

Year Completed

1966

Dam Length

160

Dam Height

20

River Or Stream

Sawmill Creek

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

15

Hydraulic Height

20

Drainage Area

2.6

Nid Storage

75

Structural Height

20

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

20
       
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.