Dayton Lake Dam

Galien River· Berrien, Michigan· Built 1833· Earth· 18 ft tall
Significant Hazard Recreation Private

Key Takeaway

Dayton Lake Dam is classified as significant hazard in Michigan. It was completed in 1833 and is 193 years old. Its primary use is recreation. Significant hazard means failure could cause economic or environmental damage. Learn more.

Physical Details

Dam Height 18 ft (taller than 63.6% in MI)
Dam Length200 ft
Dam TypeEarth
Max Storage1.2K acre-ft
Normal Storage1.0K acre-ft
Surface Area128 acres
Drainage Area1 sq mi
Max Discharge40 cfs
Year Completed1833 (193 years old)
NID IDMI00018

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 23, 2020
State Regulated: Yes
Regulatory Agency: MICHIGAN DEGLE

Ownership

Berrien County Drain Commissioner

Private

Nearby Dams

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the hazard classification of Dayton Lake Dam?

Dayton Lake 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 Dayton Lake Dam?

Dayton Lake Dam is owned by Berrien County Drain Commissioner (Private). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.

When was Dayton Lake Dam built?

Dayton Lake Dam was completed in 1833, making it 193 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 Dayton Lake Dam?

Dayton Lake 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 Dayton Lake Dam?

Dayton Lake Dam has a dam height of 18 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 Dayton Lake Dam last inspected?

Dayton Lake Dam was last inspected on September 23, 2020. 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.