Brooklyn Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Brooklyn Dam, located in Jackson, Michigan, is a privately owned structure that serves primarily for recreational purposes.


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Summary

Built in 1940, this earth dam stands at a height of 22 feet and spans 482 feet in length, holding back the waters of the River Raisin. With a storage capacity of 440 acre-feet and a surface area of 16 acres, the dam plays a crucial role in managing water resources in the region.

Despite its satisfactory condition assessment in 2015, Brooklyn Dam poses a high hazard potential due to its location and design. The dam features a controlled spillway with a width of 32 feet to manage potential overflow. While the dam has undergone regular inspections and is regulated by the Michigan DEGLE, its risk assessment remains at a concerning "Very High (1)" level, necessitating continued monitoring and maintenance to ensure public safety and water resource sustainability.

As climate change impacts water resources and infrastructure, the management and maintenance of dams like Brooklyn Dam become increasingly vital. With its location in a high-risk area and the potential for extreme weather events, the dam serves as a crucial piece of infrastructure for both recreational activities and flood control along the River Raisin. As water resource and climate enthusiasts, understanding the importance of Brooklyn Dam in the broader context of water management and climate resilience is essential for preserving the health and safety of communities downstream.

Year Completed

1940

Dam Length

482

Dam Height

22

River Or Stream

River Raisin

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

16

Hydraulic Height

22

Drainage Area

32.3

Nid Storage

440

Structural Height

22

Hazard Potential

High

Nid Height

22
       
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.