Crystal Valley Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: Whiskey Creek Dam #2 Hart Lake
Last Updated: December 5, 2025
Crystal Valley Dam, located in Pentwater, Michigan, is a local government-owned structure that serves primarily for recreation purposes.
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Summary
Completed in 1937, this earth dam stands at a height of 16 feet and spans 615 feet in length, creating a reservoir with a maximum storage capacity of 570 acre-feet. The dam, situated on Crystal Creek, is regulated by the Michigan Department of Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy (DEGLE) and undergoes inspections every five years to ensure its fair condition and low hazard potential.
With a spillway width of 20 feet and a maximum discharge capacity of 440 cubic feet per second, Crystal Valley Dam poses a moderate risk level, according to the data available. Despite its age, the dam continues to serve its primary purpose of providing recreational opportunities to residents and visitors alike. Its location in Oceana County, Michigan, along with its modest surface area of 7 acres and drainage area of 6.1 square miles, highlights the importance of this structure in managing water resources and climate in the region. As a vital component of the local infrastructure, the dam plays a crucial role in maintaining the balance of water supply and demand in the area.
Year Completed |
1937 |
Dam Length |
615 |
Dam Height |
16 |
River Or Stream |
Crystal Creek |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
7 |
Hydraulic Height |
16 |
Drainage Area |
6.1 |
Nid Storage |
570 |
Structural Height |
16 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Nid Height |
16 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Pere Marquette River At Scottville
|
480cfs |
White River Near Whitehall
|
281cfs |
Bear Creek Near Muskegon
|
6cfs |
Manistee River Near Wellston
|
1580cfs |
Pine River At High School Bridge Nr Hoxeyville
|
229cfs |
Muskegon River Near Croton
|
1280cfs |
Dam Data Reference
Condition Assessment
SatisfactoryNo 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
HighDams 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.
Crystal Valley Dam