Blackhawk Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Blackhawk Dam, located on the Coldwater River in Coldwater, Michigan, is a privately owned earth dam primarily used for recreation.


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Summary

Built in 1830, the dam stands at a height of 17 feet with a hydraulic height of 18 feet and a length of 1040 feet. It has a storage capacity of 276 acre-feet and a drainage area of 72 square miles, making it an important water resource in the area.

Despite its historical significance, Blackhawk Dam has been assessed as being in poor condition, with a low hazard potential. The last inspection in October 2016 revealed that the dam may be at risk, as it is classified as having a very high risk level. The dam's emergency action plan and risk management measures are unclear, raising concerns among water resource and climate enthusiasts about its safety and the potential impact of a failure on the surrounding community.

As the only dam on the Coldwater River, Blackhawk Dam plays a crucial role in water management and recreation in Branch, Michigan. Its deteriorating condition and high risk level underscore the importance of regular maintenance and investment in infrastructure to ensure the safety and sustainability of water resources in the region. Water resource and climate enthusiasts should monitor developments concerning Blackhawk Dam to advocate for necessary improvements and safeguard the local environment.

Year Completed

1830

Dam Length

1040

Dam Height

17

River Or Stream

Coldwater River

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

200

Hydraulic Height

18

Drainage Area

72

Nid Storage

276

Structural Height

17

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

18
       
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.