Bryant Mill Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Bryant Mill Dam, also known as Alcott Street Dam, is a private dam located in Kalamazoo, Michigan, along Portage Creek.


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Summary

Built in 1946, this earth dam stands at a height of 16.75 feet and serves primarily for recreational purposes. With a storage capacity of 180 acre-feet and a maximum discharge of 797 cubic feet per second, the dam offers opportunities for water-based activities in the area.

Managed by the Michigan DEGLE, Bryant Mill Dam has a high hazard potential and is inspected every three years, with the last assessment conducted in August 2015. Despite its high risk level, the dam's condition was deemed satisfactory during the last inspection. However, due to its high hazard potential, there is a need for emergency action preparedness to ensure public safety in case of any unforeseen events. The risk assessment for Bryant Mill Dam indicates a very high risk level, emphasizing the importance of proactive risk management measures to mitigate potential hazards.

Water resource and climate enthusiasts visiting Bryant Mill Dam can appreciate the engineering behind this structure, as well as the recreational opportunities it provides along Portage Creek. With its controlled spillway and satisfactory condition assessment, the dam serves as a valuable asset for the community while also highlighting the importance of ongoing maintenance and risk management to ensure its safety and longevity.

Year Completed

1946

Dam Length

480

Dam Height

16.75

River Or Stream

Portage Creek

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Hydraulic Height

14.5

Drainage Area

27.1

Nid Storage

180

Structural Height

16.75

Hazard Potential

High

Nid Height

17
       
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.