Grayling Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Grayling Dam, also known as Stump Pond Dam, is a local government-owned structure located in Grayling, Michigan.


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Summary

Completed in 1933, this dam on the Au Sable River stands at a height of 9 feet and has a length of 17.5 feet. With a primary purpose classified as 'Other,' the dam serves as a crucial component in the region's water resource management, providing a storage capacity of 306 acre-feet and a maximum discharge capability of 330 cubic feet per second.

Despite its age, Grayling Dam remains in good condition, with a moderate hazard potential and an undetermined risk assessment. The dam's spillway, of uncontrolled type, has a width of 18 feet, ensuring efficient water flow during periods of high discharge. With a storage capacity of 170 acre-feet under normal conditions, the dam plays a significant role in regulating water levels and protecting downstream areas from potential flooding events.

Water resource and climate enthusiasts will appreciate the vital role that Grayling Dam plays in managing the flow of the Au Sable River and ensuring water availability for various purposes in the region. Its strategic location in Crawford County, Michigan, highlights the importance of sustainable infrastructure in safeguarding water resources for both ecological and human needs. As efforts continue to assess and manage the risks associated with the dam, its historical significance and ongoing functionality underscore the critical intersection of water resource management and climate resilience in the area.

Year Completed

1933

Dam Length

17.5

Dam Height

9

River Or Stream

Au Sable River

Primary Dam Type

Other

Surface Area

85

Hydraulic Height

9

Drainage Area

110

Nid Storage

306

Structural Height

9

Hazard Potential

Undetermined

Nid Height

9
       
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.