Brown Bridge Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 24, 2025

Brown Bridge Dam, located in Traverse City, Michigan, stands as a vital structure along the Boardman River, serving primarily for recreational purposes since its completion in 1921.


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Summary

This earth dam, with a height of 46 feet and a length of 2400 feet, boasts a storage capacity of 2800 acre-feet, providing ample opportunities for water-based activities in its 191-acre surface area. While not currently regulated by the state, the dam is classified as having a high hazard potential, emphasizing the need for regular inspections and risk management measures.

Despite its age, Brown Bridge Dam has not undergone any significant modifications in recent years, with its last inspection dating back to 2008. The dam's controlled spillway, with a width of 60 feet, helps regulate the flow of water in times of excess, ensuring the safety of downstream areas. However, the dam's hazard potential rating of "Very High (1)" underscores the importance of thorough risk assessments and emergency preparedness measures to mitigate any potential dangers associated with its operation.

As a focal point for water resource and climate enthusiasts, Brown Bridge Dam presents a unique blend of historical significance and recreational value within the Grand Traverse County landscape. With its picturesque location and rich history, the dam serves as a reminder of the delicate balance between human intervention and natural ecosystems, highlighting the importance of sustainable water management practices in the face of evolving environmental challenges.

Year Completed

1921

Dam Length

2400

Dam Height

46

River Or Stream

Boardman River

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

191

Hydraulic Height

46

Drainage Area

151

Nid Storage

2800

Structural Height

46

Hazard Potential

High

Nid Height

46
       
Seasonal Comparison

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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.