Sunny Brook Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Sunny Brook Dam, located in Wellston, Michigan, was completed in 1890 and stands at a height of 8 feet with a length of 690 feet.


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Summary

It serves the primary purpose of water resource management on Pine Creek, offering a normal storage capacity of 30 acre-feet. The dam, classified as an Earth type structure, has a low hazard potential and is currently in satisfactory condition as per the last assessment in 2000.

Managed by a private owner, Sunny Brook Dam is regulated by the Michigan DEGLE and undergoes regular inspections to ensure its safety and functionality. With a moderate risk assessment score of 3, the dam's emergency action plan status and risk management measures are currently undisclosed. Despite its uncontrolled spillway and limited associated structures, Sunny Brook Dam remains a crucial asset for water storage and flow control in Manistee County, Michigan. Enthusiasts of water resources and climate in the area can appreciate the historical significance and ongoing importance of this vital infrastructure.

Year Completed

1890

Dam Length

690

Dam Height

8

River Or Stream

Pine Creek

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

15

Hydraulic Height

8

Drainage Area

5.2

Nid Storage

60

Structural Height

8

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

8
       
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.