Trout Creek Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Trout Creek Dam, located in Ontonagon, Michigan, was completed in 1899 and serves as a vital recreational site along Trout Creek.


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Summary

Owned by the local government, this earth dam stands at a height of 12 feet and has a structural height of 12 feet as well. With a length of 180 feet, the dam has a spillway width of 14 feet and a maximum discharge capacity of 750 cubic feet per second.

Despite its age, Trout Creek Dam has a significant hazard potential and is classified as having a moderate risk level. While it has not been inspected since 1999, the dam is designated for recreational purposes and has not been rated for its current condition. The dam lacks a formal Emergency Action Plan, but it is situated in a picturesque landscape that attracts water resource and climate enthusiasts alike.

For those interested in water resource management and climate resilience, Trout Creek Dam presents a unique opportunity to explore the intersection of historical infrastructure with modern-day conservation efforts. As stakeholders continue to monitor the dam's condition and potential risks, there is a growing need for proactive measures to ensure the safety and sustainability of this important recreational asset in Michigan.

Year Completed

1899

Dam Length

180

Dam Height

12

River Or Stream

Trout Creek

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

3

Hydraulic Height

11

Drainage Area

11.6

Structural Height

12

Hazard Potential

Significant

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.