Ketchikan Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Located in Iosco County, Michigan, Ketchikan is a federal-owned fish and wildlife pond managed by the USDA Forest Service.


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Summary

Built in 1996, this earth dam stands at 8 feet tall and spans 900 feet in length, with a storage capacity of 90 acre-feet. The primary purpose of the dam is for fish and wildlife habitat enhancement, making it a vital resource for the local ecosystem.

With a low hazard potential and a moderate risk assessment rating, Ketchikan is a well-maintained structure with a 10-year inspection frequency. While the dam is currently in not rated condition, it serves as an essential asset for water resource management in the area. Located within the Buffalo District, this dam plays a crucial role in supporting the surrounding environment and maintaining a healthy ecosystem.

Although Ketchikan does not have a designated emergency action plan or updated inundation maps, its operational oversight by the Forest Service ensures that any potential risks are managed effectively. As a key component of water resource infrastructure in Michigan, Ketchikan stands as a testament to the importance of sustainable management practices for maintaining the health of our waterways and supporting local wildlife populations.

Year Completed

1996

Dam Length

900

Dam Height

8

River Or Stream

NONE

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

30

Hydraulic Height

6

Drainage Area

1

Nid Storage

90

Structural Height

8

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Soil

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.