Wysong Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Wysong Dam, located in Traverse City, Michigan, was completed in 1989 and serves as a recreational structure for water enthusiasts in the area.


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Summary

The dam, standing at 11 feet tall and 59 feet long, is classified as an Earth dam with a primary purpose of recreation. Situated on a tributary to Lake Michigan, it offers a serene setting for activities such as boating and fishing, making it a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts.

Despite its recreational appeal, Wysong Dam poses a significant hazard potential, with a moderate risk assessment rating of 3. The dam's condition is currently not rated, and it has not been inspected since January 1989. While the structure has not been modified in recent years, its uncontrolled spillway type and significant hazard potential underscore the importance of regular maintenance and monitoring to ensure the safety of both the dam and the surrounding area.

As a privately owned dam with no federal or state oversight, the responsibility for the upkeep and management of Wysong Dam falls on its private owner. With its significant hazard potential and moderate risk assessment, it is crucial that the owner takes proactive measures to ensure the structural integrity of the dam and implement appropriate risk management strategies. For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Wysong Dam presents both a recreational opportunity and a reminder of the importance of vigilance in managing and maintaining our water infrastructure.

Year Completed

1989

Dam Length

59

Dam Height

11

River Or Stream

Tributary to Lake Michigan

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

1

Hydraulic Height

11

Drainage Area

0.5

Nid Storage

2

Structural Height

11

Hazard Potential

Significant

Nid Height

11
       
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.