Forkers Dam, also known as Bob A Ron, is a privately-owned recreational structure located in New Buffalo, Michigan.
Wind
Humidity
Built in 1966 by the USDA NRCS, this earth-type dam stands at a height of 21 feet and stretches 250 feet in length, with a storage capacity of 96 acre-feet. Situated along a tributary to the Galein River, the dam serves primarily for recreational purposes and has a low hazard potential.
Despite being in operation for over half a century, Forkers Dam has not been state-regulated or inspected, with no state enforcement or permitting required. While the dam's condition is not currently rated, it is considered to have a moderate risk level. With its uncontrolled spillway and limited drainage area of 0.1 square miles, the dam presents a unique engineering and environmental challenge for water resource and climate enthusiasts interested in the management of small-scale recreational structures in the region.
Year Completed |
1966 |
Dam Length |
250 |
Dam Height |
21 |
River Or Stream |
Tributary to Galein River |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
4 |
Hydraulic Height |
21 |
Drainage Area |
0.1 |
Nid Storage |
96 |
Structural Height |
21 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Nid Height |
21 |
Galien River Near Sawyer
|
38cfs |
Trail Creek At Michigan City
|
66cfs |
Trail Creek At Michigan City Harbor
|
78cfs |
St. Joseph River At Niles
|
2050cfs |
Juday Creek Near South Bend
|
7cfs |
Dowagiac River At Sumnerville
|
282cfs |
| Location | Reservations | Toilets |
|---|---|---|
Warren Dunes State Park
|
||
Warren Dunes-Rustic
|
||
Weko Beach
|