Barryton Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Barryton Dam, located on the Chippewa River in Mount Pleasant, Michigan, is a gravity-type dam completed in 1920 primarily for recreational purposes.


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Summary

With a height of 14.2 feet and a hydraulic height of 12.7 feet, the dam has a storage capacity of 260 acre-feet and serves as a popular spot for water-based activities. The dam's structural integrity is regularly inspected by the Michigan DEGLE, with the last assessment conducted in July 2019, indicating a satisfactory condition.

Despite its age, Barryton Dam remains a significant structure with a hazard potential categorized as significant. The dam's spillway width of 116 feet ensures effective water discharge during high flow events, reducing the risk of flooding in the surrounding area. The risk assessment for the dam is classified as high, highlighting the importance of ongoing monitoring and maintenance to mitigate potential safety concerns. The dam's location within the Mecosta County, Michigan, underscores its importance in managing water resources and ensuring public safety in the region.

In the event of an emergency, the dam's emergency action plan (EAP) is expected to meet guidelines and provide necessary protocols for response and evacuation. With the support of local government ownership and regulatory oversight, Barryton Dam continues to play a vital role in water resource management, recreation, and flood control efforts along the Chippewa River.

Year Completed

1920

Dam Length

625

Dam Height

14.2

River Or Stream

Chippewa River

Primary Dam Type

Gravity

Surface Area

46

Hydraulic Height

12.7

Drainage Area

144

Nid Storage

260

Structural Height

14.2

Hazard Potential

Significant

Nid Height

14
       
Seasonal Comparison

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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.