Tuttle Marsh Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Tuttle Marsh Dam, located in East Tawas, Michigan, is a Federal-owned structure managed by the USDA Forest Service.


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Summary

Built in 1989, this Earth-type dam serves as a Fish and Wildlife Pond with a primary purpose of enhancing the local ecosystem. The dam stands at 7 feet high and spans a length of 11,800 feet, providing a storage capacity of 723 acre-feet and a surface area of 380 acres.

The dam's low hazard potential and moderate risk assessment make it a critical component of the Kunze Creek watershed, offering flood control and habitat support for various wildlife species in the area. Despite being uncontrolled, the dam's structure and design have withstood the test of time, ensuring the safety and integrity of the surrounding environment. With regular inspections and maintenance by the Forest Service, Tuttle Marsh Dam continues to play a crucial role in water resource management and climate resilience efforts in Iosco County.

For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Tuttle Marsh Dam presents a fascinating case study of how federal agencies like the USDA Forest Service contribute to ecological preservation and disaster prevention through innovative dam projects. From its construction to its current condition, this dam serves as a testament to the importance of sustainable water management practices in safeguarding natural ecosystems and communities against the impacts of climate change.

Year Completed

1989

Dam Length

11800

Dam Height

7

River Or Stream

KUNZE CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

380

Hydraulic Height

5

Drainage Area

6

Nid Storage

723

Structural Height

7

Outlet Gates

Uncontrolled

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

7
       
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.