Sucker Creek Dam Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 5, 2025
Sucker Creek Dam, located in Ontonagon, Michigan, is a privately owned structure that serves as a vital component for hydroelectric power generation.
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Summary
The dam, primarily constructed of earth, stands at a height of 15 feet and spans 420 feet in length. With a maximum storage capacity of 360 acre-feet and a normal storage level of 240 acre-feet, Sucker Creek Dam plays a crucial role in water resource management within the region.
Managed by the Michigan Department of Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy (DEGLE), Sucker Creek Dam is regulated, inspected, and enforced by state authorities to ensure its structural integrity and compliance with safety standards. Despite being classified as having a low hazard potential and satisfactory condition assessment, the dam is subject to moderate risk due to its location and characteristics. While last inspected in 2006, the dam's emergency action plan and risk management measures are yet to be updated or fully delineated.
For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Sucker Creek Dam presents an intriguing case study in the intersection of water infrastructure, energy production, and environmental stewardship in Michigan. The dam's role in hydroelectric power generation, coupled with its state-regulated status and moderate risk classification, highlights the complex challenges and opportunities associated with managing water resources in a changing climate. As efforts to enhance resilience and sustainability in water management continue to evolve, the case of Sucker Creek Dam offers valuable insights into the intricate dynamics of balancing human needs with ecological integrity in a key waterway of the Upper Peninsula.
Dam Length |
420 |
Dam Height |
15 |
River Or Stream |
Sucker Creek |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
60 |
Hydraulic Height |
15 |
Drainage Area |
9.7 |
Nid Storage |
360 |
Structural Height |
15 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Nid Height |
15 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
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.
Area Campgrounds
| Location | Reservations | Toilets |
|---|---|---|
Robbins Pond Campground
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Bond Falls Flowage
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DEER-A
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Burned Dam
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WOLF
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DEER-B
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Sucker Creek Dam
US 45 Haight Township