Howlandsburg Dam

Gull Creek· Kalamazoo, Michigan· Built 1837· Earth· 16 ft tall
Significant Hazard Recreation Private

Key Takeaway

Howlandsburg Dam is classified as significant hazard in Michigan. It was completed in 1837 and is 189 years old. Its primary use is recreation. Significant hazard means failure could cause economic or environmental damage. Learn more.

Physical Details

Dam Height 16 ft (taller than 55.7% in MI)
Dam Length550 ft
Dam TypeEarth
Max Storage200 acre-ft
Normal Storage120 acre-ft
Surface Area29 acres
Drainage Area22 sq mi
Max Discharge385 cfs
Year Completed1837 (189 years old)
NID IDMI00141

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: June 26, 2014
State Regulated: Yes
Regulatory Agency: MICHIGAN DEGLE

Ownership

Robert & K-Marie Burrow

Private

Nearby Dams

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the hazard classification of Howlandsburg Dam?

Howlandsburg 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 Howlandsburg Dam?

Howlandsburg Dam is owned by Robert & K-Marie Burrow (Private). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.

When was Howlandsburg Dam built?

Howlandsburg Dam was completed in 1837, making it 189 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 Howlandsburg Dam?

Howlandsburg 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 Howlandsburg Dam?

Howlandsburg Dam has a dam height of 16 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 Howlandsburg Dam last inspected?

Howlandsburg Dam was last inspected on June 26, 2014. 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.