Scotts Mill Dam
Key Takeaway
Scotts Mill Dam is classified as significant hazard in Michigan. It was completed in 1859 and is 167 years old. Its primary use is recreation. Significant hazard means failure could cause economic or environmental damage. Learn more.
Physical Details
| Dam Height | 19 ft (taller than 67.3% in MI) |
| Dam Length | 314 ft |
| Dam Type | Earth |
| Max Storage | 75 acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 55 acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 8 acres |
| Drainage Area | 7 sq mi |
| Max Discharge | 480 cfs |
| Year Completed | 1859 (167 years old) |
| NID ID | MI00148 |
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
Kalamazoo County Parks
Local Government
Nearby Dams
Cooks Mill Dam
Kalamazoo, MI
Low Hazard 18 ftTaylor Dam
Kalamazoo, MI
Low Hazard 13 ftUpjohn Dam
Kalamazoo, MI
Low Hazard 9 ftMorrow
Kalamazoo, MI
High Hazard 26 ftVanrick Industrial Park Dam
Kalamazoo, MI
Low Hazard 19 ftLower Comstock Dam
Kalamazoo, MI
High Hazard 18 ftMiddle Comstock Dam
Kalamazoo, MI
High Hazard 21 ftWhitford Lake Dam
Kalamazoo, MI
Low Hazard 8 ftFrequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Scotts Mill Dam?
Scotts 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 Scotts Mill Dam?
Scotts Mill Dam is owned by Kalamazoo County Parks (Local Government). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Scotts Mill Dam built?
Scotts Mill Dam was completed in 1859, making it 167 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 Scotts Mill Dam?
Scotts 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 Scotts Mill Dam?
Scotts Mill Dam has a dam height of 19 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 Scotts Mill Dam last inspected?
Scotts Mill Dam was last inspected on November 8, 2017. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.