Birch Creek Club Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: Little Wolf Creek Dam Nawakwa Dam
Last Updated: December 5, 2025
Birch Creek Club Dam, located in Alpena, Michigan, stands as a testament to the importance of water resource management and climate resilience in the region.
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Summary
Completed in 1998, this private-owned Earth-type dam serves a primary purpose of recreation, offering a serene oasis for water enthusiasts to enjoy. With a dam height of 18 feet and a storage capacity of 57 acre-feet, Birch Creek Club Dam provides essential water storage and recreational opportunities for the community.
Managed by the Michigan Department of Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy (DEGLE), Birch Creek Club Dam is subject to regular inspections and enforcement to ensure its structural integrity and safety. The dam's uncontrolled spillway type and low hazard potential contribute to its overall satisfactory condition assessment. With a moderate risk level assigned, measures are in place to mitigate any potential risks and ensure the dam's continued functionality for the future.
As part of the Buffalo District within the US Army Corps of Engineers, Birch Creek Club Dam is a vital component of the local water infrastructure, contributing to flood control and water management efforts in the region. Its location along Robbs Creek and proximity to Alpena make it a key player in maintaining the ecological balance and water supply for the surrounding areas. For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Birch Creek Club Dam serves as a fascinating example of human intervention in natural systems for the benefit of both recreation and environmental conservation.
Year Completed |
1998 |
Dam Length |
800 |
Dam Height |
18 |
River Or Stream |
Robbs Creek |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
7 |
Hydraulic Height |
17 |
Drainage Area |
1 |
Nid Storage |
57 |
Structural Height |
18 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Nid Height |
18 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Au Sable River Near Mc Kinley
|
965cfs |
Au Sable River Near Curtisville
|
838cfs |
Au Sable River At Mio
|
665cfs |
Thunder Bay River At Herron Road Near Bolton
|
365cfs |
Au Sable River Near Red Oak
|
609cfs |
Au Sable River Near Au Sable
|
883cfs |
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.
Birch Creek Club Dam