Rice Creek Dam Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 5, 2025
Rice Creek Dam, also known as White Mills Dam, is a local government-owned structure located in Marshall, Michigan.
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Summary
Built in 1835, this earth dam stands at a height of 12 feet and spans 500 feet in length. Its primary purpose is for recreation, offering a surface area of 8 acres and a maximum storage capacity of 50 acre-feet.
Despite being not rated for its condition, Rice Creek Dam is considered to have a low hazard potential with a moderate risk assessment score of 3. The dam features an uncontrolled spillway with a width of 101 feet and a maximum discharge capacity of 1330 cubic feet per second. While it has not undergone recent inspections since 1994, the structure's risk management measures and emergency action plan status remain unknown.
For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Rice Creek Dam presents an interesting case study in historic dam infrastructure in Michigan. Its location along Rice Creek contributes to the local recreational opportunities while also raising questions about the need for updated inspections and risk management practices to ensure the safety and resilience of the structure in the face of changing environmental conditions.
Year Completed |
1835 |
Dam Length |
500 |
Dam Height |
12 |
River Or Stream |
Rice Creek |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
8 |
Hydraulic Height |
12 |
Drainage Area |
97 |
Nid Storage |
50 |
Structural Height |
12 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Nid Height |
12 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Dam Data Reference
Condition Assessment
SatisfactoryNo 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
HighDams 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.
Rice Creek Dam