Kawkawlin River Walleye Pond Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

The Kawkawlin River Walleye Pond Dam in Michigan stands as a crucial structure for water resource management and climate enthusiasts.


°F

°F

mph

Wind

%

Humidity

Summary

Completed in 1978, this Earth-type dam has a height of 10 feet and a hydraulic height of 8.3 feet, providing storage of 82 acre-feet of water with a normal storage capacity of 30 acre-feet. Situated in Bay County, Michigan, this dam plays a vital role in regulating the flow of the Kawkawlin River, a tributary to the larger water body.

Managed by the Michigan Department of Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy (DEGLE), this state-regulated dam has a low hazard potential with a satisfactory condition assessment. With a spillway width of 4 feet and uncontrolled spillway type, the structure ensures the safe release of excess water during peak periods. The dam's risk assessment is deemed moderate, highlighting the importance of ongoing monitoring and maintenance to uphold its functionality and safeguard surrounding communities from potential risks.

As a key component of the water infrastructure in the region, the Kawkawlin River Walleye Pond Dam serves as a testament to the intersection of water resource management and environmental conservation efforts. Its existence not only supports the local ecosystem but also underscores the need for sustainable practices in the face of changing climate patterns. For enthusiasts and stakeholders alike, this dam symbolizes the delicate balance between human intervention and nature's resilience in safeguarding our precious water resources.

Year Completed

1978

Dam Length

500

Dam Height

10

River Or Stream

Tributary to Kawkawlin River

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

13

Hydraulic Height

8.3

Drainage Area

0.2

Nid Storage

82

Structural Height

10

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

10
       
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.