Fox And Bears Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Located in Flowerville, Michigan, the Fox and Bears Dam, also known as Stiverville Golf Course Dam, is a privately owned structure that serves the primary purpose of recreation.


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Summary

Built in 1840, this earth dam stands at a height of 12 feet and spans a length of 241 feet along the Flowerfield Creek. With a storage capacity of 60 acre-feet and a maximum discharge of 310 cubic feet per second, this dam provides essential water resource management for the surrounding area.

Despite its age, the Fox and Bears Dam has a low hazard potential and a moderate risk assessment rating of 3. While it has not been rated for its condition, the dam undergoes inspections every 5 years to ensure its structural integrity and safety. With a spillway width of 12 feet and uncontrolled spillway type, this dam plays a crucial role in managing water levels and protecting the local community from potential flooding events. Although it is not under the jurisdiction of any federal agency, the Michigan Department of Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy (DEGLE) oversees its regulation, permitting, inspection, and enforcement processes.

As a beloved recreational spot in Kalamazoo County, the Fox and Bears Dam offers a tranquil setting for outdoor activities and water enthusiasts. Its historical significance and functional design make it a vital landmark in the region, showcasing the intersection of water resource management, climate resilience, and leisure opportunities. With a commitment to safety and risk management measures, this dam continues to provide valuable services for both locals and visitors alike.

Year Completed

1840

Dam Length

241

Dam Height

12

River Or Stream

Flowerfield Creek

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

9

Hydraulic Height

12

Drainage Area

20

Nid Storage

60

Structural Height

12

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

12
       
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.