Reedsburg Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Reedsburg Dam, located on the Muskegon River in Michigan, stands as a significant Earth dam completed in 1941 for the primary purpose of recreation.


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Summary

With a height of 15.5 feet and a hydraulic height of 11.4 feet, the dam boasts a structural height of 15.5 feet and a length of 636 feet. The dam provides a storage capacity of 3,450 acre-feet, with a normal storage level of 1,720 acre-feet and a maximum discharge capacity of 6,800 cubic feet per second.

Managed by the state regulatory agency MICHIGAN DEGLE, Reedsburg Dam is subject to state jurisdiction, permitting, inspection, and enforcement. Despite its significant hazard potential, the dam's condition assessment in 2017 deemed it satisfactory. The dam's uncontrolled spillway, with a width of 106 feet, serves as a safety feature in case of high water levels. Although the dam has not undergone modifications in recent years, it is regularly inspected every four years to ensure its continued safe operation.

Located in Missaukee County, Michigan, Reedsburg Dam offers not only recreational opportunities but also serves as a vital water resource within the region. With its moderate risk assessment rating and satisfactory condition, the dam remains a key asset in managing water levels and protecting downstream areas from potential flooding events. Water resource and climate enthusiasts can appreciate the engineering and regulatory efforts that go into maintaining the safety and functionality of this essential infrastructure.

Year Completed

1941

Dam Length

636

Dam Height

15.5

River Or Stream

Muskegon River

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

540

Hydraulic Height

11.4

Drainage Area

349

Nid Storage

3450

Structural Height

15.5

Hazard Potential

Significant

Nid Height

16
       
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.