Trout Creek Dam

Trout Creek· Ontonagon, Michigan· Built 1899· Earth· 12 ft tall
Significant Hazard Recreation Local Government

Key Takeaway

Trout Creek Dam is classified as significant hazard in Michigan. It was completed in 1899 and is 127 years old. Its primary use is recreation. Significant hazard means failure could cause economic or environmental damage. Learn more.

Physical Details

Dam Height 12 ft (taller than 32.7% in MI)
Dam Length180 ft
Dam TypeEarth
Surface Area3 acres
Drainage Area12 sq mi
Max Discharge750 cfs
Year Completed1899 (127 years old)
NID IDMI01757

Safety Information

Significant Hazard

No probable loss of human life, but can cause economic loss, environmental damage, or disruption of lifeline facilities.

Hazard potential describes downstream consequences of failure, not the dam's current condition. What does this mean?

Emergency Action Plan: Yes
Last Inspection: September 9, 1999
State Regulated: No

Ownership

Interior Township

Local Government

Nearby Dams

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the hazard classification of Trout Creek Dam?

Trout Creek Dam is classified as Significant Hazard. No probable loss of human life, but can cause economic loss, environmental damage, or disruption of lifeline facilities. This classification refers to the potential downstream consequences of a failure, not the dam's current structural condition.

Who owns and operates Trout Creek Dam?

Trout Creek Dam is owned by Interior Township (Local Government). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.

When was Trout Creek Dam built?

Trout Creek Dam was completed in 1899, making it 127 years old. Many U.S. dams were built between the 1930s and 1970s during a period of major infrastructure investment.

What is the primary purpose of Trout Creek Dam?

Trout Creek Dam serves the following purposes: Recreation. Many dams in the U.S. are multi-purpose, supporting flood control, water supply, recreation, and other uses.

How tall is Trout Creek Dam?

Trout Creek Dam has a dam height of 12 ft. Dam height is measured from the natural streambed at the downstream toe to the top of the dam, and may differ from the visible height.

When was Trout Creek Dam last inspected?

Trout Creek Dam was last inspected on September 9, 1999. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.

Data from the National Inventory of Dams (NID) maintained by the US Army Corps of Engineers. Dam conditions may have changed since the last update. This site is not affiliated with USACE. Do not use for emergency planning — contact your local dam safety program.