Little John Flooding Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

The Little John Flooding Dam, located in Rodgers Heights, Michigan, is a state-regulated structure constructed in 1957 with the primary purpose of recreation.


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Summary

This earth dam stands at a height of 20 feet and has a hydraulic height of 11 feet, serving as a vital component for the management of the tributary to Ryan Creek. With a storage capacity of 1200 acre-feet and a surface area of 65 acres, this dam plays a crucial role in maintaining the water resources in the Mecosta County area.

Despite being categorized as having a low hazard potential and fair condition assessment, the Little John Flooding Dam is subject to regular state inspections, ensuring its continued safety and functionality. The dam's spillway type is uncontrolled, with a width of 3 feet, and it has a maximum discharge capacity of 65 cubic feet per second. This structure, situated in a picturesque location, provides both recreational opportunities and essential water resource management for the surrounding area, making it a significant asset for both environmental enthusiasts and climate advocates.

Year Completed

1957

Dam Length

160

Dam Height

20

River Or Stream

Tributary to Ryan Creek

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

65

Hydraulic Height

11

Drainage Area

1.8

Nid Storage

1200

Structural Height

20

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

20
       
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.