Buttermilk Creek Detention Dam
Key Takeaway
Buttermilk Creek Detention Dam is classified as high hazard in Michigan. It was completed in 2000 and is 26 years old. Its primary use is flood risk reduction. High hazard means loss of life is likely if the dam fails — it does not indicate the dam's current condition. Learn more.
Physical Details
| Dam Height | 13 ft (taller than 39.7% in MI) |
| Dam Length | 480 ft |
| Dam Type | Earth |
| Max Storage | 240 acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 0 acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 0 acres |
| Drainage Area | 2 sq mi |
| Max Discharge | 400 cfs |
| Year Completed | 2000 (26 years old) |
| NID ID | MI04010 |
Safety Information
Loss of human life is likely if the dam fails.
Hazard potential describes downstream consequences of failure, not the dam's current condition. What does this mean?
Ownership
Ottawa County WRC
Private
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Low Hazard 26 ftFrequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Buttermilk Creek Detention Dam?
Buttermilk Creek Detention Dam is classified as High Hazard. Loss of human life is likely if the dam fails. This classification refers to the potential downstream consequences of a failure, not the dam's current structural condition.
Who owns and operates Buttermilk Creek Detention Dam?
Buttermilk Creek Detention Dam is owned by Ottawa County WRC (Private). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Buttermilk Creek Detention Dam built?
Buttermilk Creek Detention Dam was completed in 2000, making it 26 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 Buttermilk Creek Detention Dam?
Buttermilk Creek Detention 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 Buttermilk Creek Detention Dam?
Buttermilk Creek Detention Dam has a dam height of 13 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 Buttermilk Creek Detention Dam last inspected?
Buttermilk Creek Detention Dam was last inspected on April 27, 2023. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.