Cattail Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Cattail Dam, located in Alcona, Michigan, was completed in 1996 by the USDA Forest Service for the primary purpose of creating a Fish and Wildlife Pond.


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Summary

This Earth dam stands at 8 feet tall and spans 445 feet in length, with a maximum storage capacity of 57 acre-feet. The dam's hydraulic height is 7 feet, and it has a low hazard potential rating.

Managed and regulated by the Forest Service, Cattail Dam serves as a vital resource for wildlife and water management in the region. Despite its uncontrolled spillway type, the dam presents a moderate risk level (3) and has not been rated for its condition assessment. Regular inspections, with a frequency of 10 years, ensure the safety and functionality of this structure.

Water resource and climate enthusiasts will appreciate the sustainable approach taken by the Forest Service in designing, constructing, and managing Cattail Dam. With its focus on enhancing fish and wildlife habitats, this dam plays a crucial role in the local ecosystem while also providing opportunities for recreation and water conservation. As a federally owned and funded structure, Cattail Dam exemplifies the importance of responsible water resource management in mitigating environmental hazards and promoting biodiversity.

Year Completed

1996

Dam Length

445

Dam Height

8

River Or Stream

TRIB-MCGILLIS

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

20

Hydraulic Height

7

Nid Storage

57

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.