DNR: Big Creek Dam structurally compromised; replacement estimated at $3.47 million

Tim Cwalinski, Northern Lake Huron Unit Manager for the Michigan Department of Natural Resources, and Doug Schultz, Lake Huron Basin Coordinator, told the Crawford County Board on June 11 that Big Creek Dam — built in 1964 on the Middle Branch Big Creek — has significant structural problems and cannot be repaired in place. DNR said inspections dating from 2013 through 2025 showed a large crack in the original riser and bowing of the concrete headwall; DNR staff described stop-log removals in 2025 and noted “about four feet of boards remaining at the dam structure.”

DNR officials said the dam impounds roughly 97 acres and has an 18-foot deep area near the structure. They reported that EGLE (the Michigan Department of Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy) recommended drawdowns and additional inspection after the 2013 and 2021 Dam Safety Unit reviews. DNR engineers estimated replacement of the structure at approximately $3.47 million; the agency said complete removal was roughly estimated at $900,000. To inform design and cost estimates for removal, DNR awarded a $75,000 Habitat Improvement Account grant to Michigan Trout Unlimited. DNR said it is evaluating removal versus replacement and proceeding with further engineering and permitting work; no county action on the item was recorded at the meeting.