Denardo Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Denardo Dam, located in New Buffalo, Michigan, serves as a crucial recreational spot for water resource and climate enthusiasts.


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Summary

Completed in 1976, this earth-type dam stands at a height of 15 feet and stretches 330 feet in length, holding a storage capacity of 75 acre-feet. The dam overlooks a tributary to Lake Michigan, providing a serene backdrop for outdoor activities such as boating and fishing.

Managed by a private owner, Denardo Dam is regulated by the Michigan Department of Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy, ensuring state-permitted inspections and enforcement measures are in place. Despite its low hazard potential, the dam's risk assessment is at a moderate level, calling for ongoing risk management measures. With a spillway width of 17 feet and a maximum discharge of 100 cubic feet per second, the dam is equipped to handle controlled releases during periods of heavy rainfall.

Overall, Denardo Dam offers a harmonious blend of recreational opportunities and environmental stewardship. Water resource and climate enthusiasts can appreciate the dam's role in providing a safe and enjoyable space for outdoor recreation while adhering to state regulations to ensure public safety and water conservation in the region.

Year Completed

1976

Dam Length

330

Dam Height

15

River Or Stream

Tributary to Lake Michigan

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

9

Hydraulic Height

15

Nid Storage

75

Structural Height

15

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

15
       
Seasonal Comparison

Weather Forecast

Dam Data Reference

Condition Assessment

Satisfactory
No existing or potential dam safety deficiencies are recognized. Acceptable performance is expected under all loading conditions (static, hydrologic, seismic) in accordance with the minimum applicable state or federal regulatory criteria or tolerable risk guidelines.
Fair
No existing dam safety deficiencies are recognized for normal operating conditions. Rare or extreme hydrologic and/or seismic events may result in a dam safety deficiency. Risk may be in the range to take further action. Note: Rare or extreme event is defined by the regulatory agency based on their minimum
Poor A dam safety deficiency is recognized for normal operating conditions which may realistically occur. Remedial action is necessary. POOR may also be used when uncertainties exist as to critical analysis parameters which identify a potential dam safety deficiency. Investigations and studies are necessary.
Unsatisfactory
A dam safety deficiency is recognized that requires immediate or emergency remedial action for problem resolution.
Not Rated
The dam has not been inspected, is not under state or federal jurisdiction, or has been inspected but, for whatever reason, has not been rated.
Not Available
Dams for which the condition assessment is restricted to approved government users.

Hazard Potential Classification

High
Dams assigned the high hazard potential classification are those where failure or mis-operation will probably cause loss of human life.
Significant
Dams assigned the significant hazard potential classification are those dams where failure or mis-operation results in no probable loss of human life but can cause economic loss, environment damage, disruption of lifeline facilities, or impact other concerns. Significant hazard potential classification dams are often located in predominantly rural or agricultural areas but could be in areas with population and significant infrastructure.
Low
Dams assigned the low hazard potential classification are those where failure or mis-operation results in no probable loss of human life and low economic and/or environmental losses. Losses are principally limited to the owner's property.
Undetermined
Dams for which a downstream hazard potential has not been designated or is not provided.
Not Available
Dams for which the downstream hazard potential is restricted to approved government users.