Bear Creek Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Bear Creek Dam, located in Roscommon, Michigan, serves as a key recreational spot along Bear Creek.


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Summary

Built in 1951, this gravity dam stands at 9 feet tall with a hydraulic height of 8.1 feet and a length of 340 feet. With a storage capacity of 1300 acre-feet and a drainage area of 17.4 square miles, the dam plays a vital role in regulating water flow and providing a surface area of 127 acres for outdoor enthusiasts to enjoy.

Managed by the Michigan Department of Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy (DEGLE), Bear Creek Dam has a low hazard potential and a satisfactory condition assessment, last inspected in June 2018. The dam's spillway type is uncontrolled, with a spillway width of 20 feet, and a maximum discharge of 530 cubic feet per second. While the dam poses a moderate risk level, risk management measures are in place to ensure the safety of the surrounding community.

For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Bear Creek Dam showcases the intersection of human engineering and natural beauty, offering a peaceful retreat for visitors while also serving as a crucial element in water management and conservation efforts in the region. With its historical significance and recreational opportunities, Bear Creek Dam stands as a testament to the balance between human development and environmental stewardship in the face of changing climate conditions.

Year Completed

1951

Dam Length

340

Dam Height

9

River Or Stream

Bear Creek

Primary Dam Type

Gravity

Surface Area

127

Hydraulic Height

8.1

Drainage Area

17.4

Nid Storage

1300

Structural Height

9

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

9
       
Seasonal Comparison

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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.