Beren's Dam
Key Takeaway
Beren's Dam is classified as significant hazard in Michigan. It was completed in 1993 and is 33 years old. Its primary use is flood risk reduction. Significant hazard means failure could cause economic or environmental damage. Learn more.
Physical Details
| Dam Height | 32 ft (taller than 91.3% in MI) |
| Dam Length | 1,260 ft |
| Dam Type | Earth |
| Max Storage | 773 acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 0 acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 0 acres |
| Drainage Area | 4 sq mi |
| Max Discharge | 7,100 cfs |
| Year Completed | 1993 (33 years old) |
| NID ID | MI01353 |
Safety Information
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?
Ownership
Ottawa County Drain Commissioner
Private
Nearby Dams
Steenwyk Dam
Ottawa, MI
Low Hazard 28 ftTimmer Dam
Ottawa, MI
Low Hazard 25 ftNorth Branch Rush Creek Retention Basin Dam
Ottawa, MI
Low Hazard 14 ftButtermilk Creek Detention Dam
Ottawa, MI
High Hazard 13 ftRush Creek Detention Basin Dam #2
Ottawa, MI
Low Hazard 19 ftRushmore Lake Level Control Structure
Ottawa, MI
Low Hazard 8 ftRotman Dam
Allegan, MI
Low Hazard 26 ftKenowa Lake Level Control Structure
Ottawa, MI
Low Hazard 8 ftFrequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Beren's Dam?
Beren's 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 Beren's Dam?
Beren's Dam is owned by Ottawa County Drain Commissioner (Private). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Beren's Dam built?
Beren's Dam was completed in 1993, making it 33 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 Beren's Dam?
Beren's Dam serves the following purposes: Flood Risk Reduction. Many dams in the U.S. are multi-purpose, supporting flood control, water supply, recreation, and other uses.
How tall is Beren's Dam?
Beren's Dam has a dam height of 32 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 Beren's Dam last inspected?
Beren's Dam was last inspected on November 25, 2019. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.