Nawakwa Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: Rhoads Dam Woodland Dam
Last Updated: December 5, 2025
Nawakwa Dam, also known as Bullock Creek Dam, is a private-owned structure located in Mio, Michigan.
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Summary
Built in 1940, this earth dam stands at 15 feet high and spans 250 feet in length, serving primarily for recreational purposes along the Bullock Creek. With a storage capacity of 120 acre-feet and a surface area of 23 acres, the dam has a low hazard potential and is assessed to be in satisfactory condition as of the last inspection in 2016.
Managed by the Michigan Department of Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy (MDEGLE), Nawakwa Dam is regulated, permitted, inspected, and enforced by the state of Michigan. Despite being uncontrolled, the spillway width of 3 feet ensures water release during excess flow events. The dam's risk assessment categorizes it as moderate, reflecting a level 3 risk, with no specific risk management measures mentioned in the data.
This structure in Oscoda County not only offers recreational opportunities but also plays a vital role in managing water resources and climate in the region. As a focal point for water enthusiasts and environmentalists alike, Nawakwa Dam stands as a testament to the importance of sustainable water management practices in ensuring the safety and well-being of surrounding communities and ecosystems.
Year Completed |
1940 |
Dam Length |
250 |
Dam Height |
15 |
River Or Stream |
Bullock Creek |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
23 |
Hydraulic Height |
15 |
Drainage Area |
1.3 |
Nid Storage |
120 |
Structural Height |
15 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Nid Height |
15 |
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.
Nawakwa Dam