Barryton Dam

Chippewa River· Mecosta, Michigan· Built 1920· Gravity· 14 ft tall
Significant Hazard Recreation Local Government

Key Takeaway

Barryton Dam is classified as significant hazard in Michigan. It was completed in 1920 and is 106 years old. Its primary use is recreation. Significant hazard means failure could cause economic or environmental damage. Learn more.

Physical Details

Dam Height 14 ft (taller than 44.8% in MI)
Dam Length625 ft
Dam TypeGravity
Max Storage260 acre-ft
Normal Storage175 acre-ft
Surface Area46 acres
Drainage Area144 sq mi
Year Completed1920 (106 years old)
NID IDMI00209

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: July 19, 2019
State Regulated: Yes
Regulatory Agency: MICHIGAN DEGLE

Ownership

Village of Barryton

Local Government

Nearby Dams

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the hazard classification of Barryton Dam?

Barryton 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 Barryton Dam?

Barryton Dam is owned by Village of Barryton (Local Government). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.

When was Barryton Dam built?

Barryton Dam was completed in 1920, making it 106 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 Barryton Dam?

Barryton 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 Barryton Dam?

Barryton Dam has a dam height of 14 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 Barryton Dam last inspected?

Barryton Dam was last inspected on July 19, 2019. 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.