Dahms Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Located in Alcona, Michigan, Dahms Dam is a federally-owned Earth dam primarily used for Fish and Wildlife Pond purposes.


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Summary

Built in 1994 by the USDA Forest Service, this structure stands at a height of 10 feet with a hydraulic height of 8 feet and a length of 260 feet. With a storage capacity of 70 acre-feet and a surface area of 20 acres, Dahms Dam plays a crucial role in managing water resources for the local environment.

Despite being classified with a low hazard potential and a moderate risk assessment, Dahms Dam has not been rated for its condition as of the last inspection in 2016. The dam features an uncontrolled spillway type and remains under the oversight of the Forest Service for operations, inspections, and regulatory matters. While it has not undergone any modifications since its construction, the dam serves as a vital component in the ecosystem, supporting the surrounding fish and wildlife populations.

Enthusiasts interested in water resource management and climate change will find Dahms Dam to be an intriguing case study in sustainable infrastructure. Its role in maintaining a balanced ecosystem while providing recreational opportunities underscores the importance of responsible dam construction and maintenance in the face of evolving environmental challenges. As a federal asset, Dahms Dam stands as a testament to the ongoing efforts to protect and preserve water resources for future generations.

Year Completed

1994

Dam Length

260

Dam Height

10

River Or Stream

NONE

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

20

Hydraulic Height

8

Nid Storage

70

Structural Height

10

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

10
       
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.