Pettysville Mill Dam

Chilson Creek· Livingston, Michigan· Built 1840· Earth· 21 ft tall
Significant Hazard Recreation Private

Key Takeaway

Pettysville Mill Dam is classified as significant hazard in Michigan. It was completed in 1840 and is 186 years old. Its primary use is recreation. Significant hazard means failure could cause economic or environmental damage. Learn more.

Physical Details

Dam Height 21 ft (taller than 74.1% in MI)
Dam Length370 ft
Dam TypeEarth
Max Storage85 acre-ft
Normal Storage36 acre-ft
Surface Area5 acres
Drainage Area11 sq mi
Max Discharge0 cfs
Year Completed1840 (186 years old)
NID IDMI00743

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: November 16, 2009
State Regulated: Yes
Regulatory Agency: MICHIGAN DEGLE

Ownership

Old Mill Hills Preservation Assoc

Private

Nearby Dams

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the hazard classification of Pettysville Mill Dam?

Pettysville Mill 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 Pettysville Mill Dam?

Pettysville Mill Dam is owned by Old Mill Hills Preservation Assoc (Private). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.

When was Pettysville Mill Dam built?

Pettysville Mill Dam was completed in 1840, making it 186 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 Pettysville Mill Dam?

Pettysville Mill 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 Pettysville Mill Dam?

Pettysville Mill Dam has a dam height of 21 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 Pettysville Mill Dam last inspected?

Pettysville Mill Dam was last inspected on November 16, 2009. 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.