Watervliet Dam

Paw Paw River· Berrien, Michigan· Built 1849· Gravity· 11 ft tall
Unknown Recreation Private

Key Takeaway

Watervliet Dam is classified as unknown in Michigan. It was completed in 1849 and is 177 years old. Its primary use is recreation.

Physical Details

Dam Height 11 ft (taller than 26.9% in MI)
Dam Length130 ft
Dam TypeGravity
Max Storage400 acre-ft
Normal Storage340 acre-ft
Surface Area106 acres
Drainage Area0 sq mi
Max Discharge3,500 cfs
Year Completed1849 (177 years old)
NID IDMI00204

Safety Information

Unknown

Hazard potential has not been determined.

Hazard potential describes downstream consequences of failure, not the dam's current condition. What does this mean?

Emergency Action Plan: No
Last Inspection: August 30, 2007
State Regulated: No

Ownership

Berrien Co Brownfield Redevelop Au

Private

Nearby Dams

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the hazard classification of Watervliet Dam?

Watervliet Dam is classified as Unknown. Hazard potential has not been determined. This classification refers to the potential downstream consequences of a failure, not the dam's current structural condition.

Who owns and operates Watervliet Dam?

Watervliet Dam is owned by Berrien Co Brownfield Redevelop Au (Private). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.

When was Watervliet Dam built?

Watervliet Dam was completed in 1849, making it 177 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 Watervliet Dam?

Watervliet 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 Watervliet Dam?

Watervliet Dam has a dam height of 11 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 Watervliet Dam last inspected?

Watervliet Dam was last inspected on August 30, 2007. 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.