Buck Creek Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Buck Creek Dam, located in Iosco, Michigan, is a federal-owned structure primarily managed by the Forest Service for the purpose of creating a Fish and Wildlife Pond.


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Summary

Completed in 1979, this earth dam stands at a height of 13 feet and has a hydraulic height of 11 feet, with a length of 250 feet. The dam has a normal storage capacity of 53 acre-feet and a maximum storage of 92 acre-feet.

With a low hazard potential and a moderate risk assessment rating, Buck Creek Dam plays a crucial role in managing water resources in the area. The dam is equipped with an uncontrolled spillway with a width of 20 feet, and has undergone regular state inspections, permitting, and enforcement to ensure its structural integrity and safety. The Forest Service oversees the operations, inspections, and regulatory aspects of the dam to mitigate any potential risks and ensure the safety of the surrounding community.

For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Buck Creek Dam serves as a vital infrastructure for supporting fish and wildlife habitats, as well as providing recreational opportunities in the area. The dam's presence on Buck Creek not only helps in water storage and management, but also contributes to the overall ecosystem health and biodiversity of the region. As climate change continues to impact water resources, the maintenance and proper management of structures like Buck Creek Dam become increasingly important in sustaining the delicate balance of nature and meeting the needs of both humans and wildlife.

Year Completed

1979

Dam Length

250

Dam Height

13

River Or Stream

BUCK CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

10

Hydraulic Height

11

Drainage Area

1

Nid Storage

92

Structural Height

13

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

13
       
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.
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