Parent Creek Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Nestled in the picturesque town of Alberta, Michigan, the Parent Creek Dam stands as a vital water resource structure with a NID storage capacity of 133 acre-feet, providing essential water management benefits to the surrounding area.


°F

°F

mph

Wind

%

Humidity

Summary

Managed by a private owner, this dam is regulated by the Michigan Department of Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy, ensuring its compliance with state standards for safety and environmental protection. With a low hazard potential and fair condition assessment, the dam plays a crucial role in maintaining water levels and mitigating flood risks along Parent Creek.

Although the dam's primary purpose and construction details remain unspecified, its 12-foot hydraulic height and storage capacity of 83 acre-feet during normal conditions demonstrate its significance in water storage and flood control. The risk assessment indicates a high risk level of 2, prompting the need for ongoing monitoring and potential risk management measures to ensure the dam's continued functionality and safety. The last inspection in September 2020 revealed a fair condition, highlighting the importance of regular maintenance and assessments to uphold the dam's integrity and performance in the face of changing climate conditions.

Amidst the tranquil surroundings of Baraga, Michigan, the Parent Creek Dam serves as a testament to the intersection of water resource management and climate resilience. As climate change impacts become increasingly prevalent, the maintenance and regulation of dams like Parent Creek are crucial in safeguarding communities and ecosystems from the potential risks of flooding and water scarcity. Through diligent oversight and proactive measures, this dam stands as a beacon of sustainable water management in the heart of Michigan's natural landscape.

Dam Height

12

River Or Stream

Parent Creek

Surface Area

25

Hydraulic Height

12

Nid Storage

133

Structural Height

12

Hazard Potential

Low

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.