Watervliet Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 18, 2025

Watervliet Dam, located in Berrien, Michigan, along the Paw Paw River, stands as a testament to engineering innovation since its completion in 1849.


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Summary

This private-owned gravity dam, primarily serving recreational purposes, boasts a height of 11 feet and a length of 130 feet, with a storage capacity of 400 acre-feet. With a controlled spillway and a maximum discharge capacity of 3500 cubic feet per second, the dam ensures both safety and functionality for the surrounding area.

Despite its age, Watervliet Dam's risk assessment indicates a very high hazard potential, emphasizing the need for continued monitoring and management. While the dam's condition remains unrated, its emergency action plan status, inundation maps, and risk management measures are all undetermined or unavailable. The surrounding community, led by Congressman Fred Upton, must work together to ensure the safety and sustainability of this historic water resource, especially in the face of changing climate conditions that may exacerbate existing risks.

As water resource and climate enthusiasts, it is crucial to recognize the importance of maintaining and preserving structures like Watervliet Dam. By staying informed and advocating for thorough risk assessments, emergency preparedness, and ongoing maintenance, we can help safeguard this vital infrastructure and ensure its continued contribution to the local ecosystem and community.

Year Completed

1849

Dam Length

130

Dam Height

11

River Or Stream

Paw Paw River

Primary Dam Type

Gravity

Surface Area

106

Hydraulic Height

11

Nid Storage

400

Structural Height

11

Hazard Potential

Undetermined

Nid Height

11
       
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.