Molasses River Flooding #5 Dam Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 5, 2025
The Molasses River Flooding #5 Dam, located in Albright Shores, Michigan, is a state-owned structure built in 1962 with a primary purpose classified as "Other." This earth dam stands at a height of 9 feet with a hydraulic height of 4.2 feet and a length of 2640 feet.
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Summary
It has a storage capacity of 1240 acre-feet and serves as a critical part of the Tributary to Molasses River system in Gladwin County, Michigan.
Despite being classified as having a low hazard potential and satisfactory condition, the dam has not been inspected since December 2014, raising concerns about its current state and readiness in the face of potential flooding events. With a moderate risk assessment rating of 3, there is a need for updated inspection and risk management measures to ensure the safety and functionality of the Molasses River Flooding #5 Dam. Additionally, the dam lacks certain emergency preparedness features, such as an Emergency Action Plan (EAP) and updated contact information, highlighting potential gaps in response capabilities during emergencies.
As water resource and climate enthusiasts monitor the evolving landscape of dams in the United States, the Molasses River Flooding #5 Dam serves as a focal point for attention due to its age, location, and maintenance status. With its critical role in water management in the region, stakeholders must prioritize proactive measures to address any potential risks and ensure the long-term safety and resilience of this essential infrastructure.
Year Completed |
1962 |
Dam Length |
2640 |
Dam Height |
9 |
River Or Stream |
Tributary to Molasses River |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
195 |
Hydraulic Height |
4.2 |
Drainage Area |
0.7 |
Nid Storage |
1240 |
Structural Height |
9 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Nid Height |
9 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Dam Data Reference
Condition Assessment
SatisfactoryNo 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
HighDams 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.
Molasses River Flooding #5 Dam