Orangeville Dam
Key Takeaway
Orangeville 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 | 9 ft (taller than 14.1% in MI) |
| Dam Length | 160 ft |
| Dam Type | Earth |
| Max Storage | 100 acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 35 acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 208 acres |
| Drainage Area | 11 sq mi |
| Max Discharge | 225 cfs |
| Year Completed | 1920 (106 years old) |
| NID ID | MI00013 |
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
Barry County Drain Commissioner
Local Government
Nearby Dams
Canterbury Lake Dam
Barry, MI
Low Hazard 16 ftLower Crystal Lake Dam
Barry, MI
Low Hazard 30 ftHall Lake Dam
Barry, MI
Significant Hazard 15 ftBowen Mill Dam
Barry, MI
Low Hazard 16 ftLake Doster Dam
Allegan, MI
High Hazard 34 ftAlbion Dam
Barry, MI
Low Hazard 8 ftIrving
Barry, MI
Low Hazard 18 ftPlainwell Dam Number 2
Allegan, MI
Low Hazard 14 ftFrequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Orangeville Dam?
Orangeville 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 Orangeville Dam?
Orangeville Dam is owned by Barry County Drain Commissioner (Local Government). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Orangeville Dam built?
Orangeville 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 Orangeville Dam?
Orangeville 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 Orangeville Dam?
Orangeville Dam has a dam height of 9 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 Orangeville Dam last inspected?
Orangeville Dam was last inspected on October 26, 2018. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.