Croswell Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Located in Croswell, Michigan, the Croswell Dam stands as a vital structure for water supply purposes along the Black River.


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Summary

Constructed in 1902, this concrete dam boasts a height of 12 feet and a length of 200 feet, providing a storage capacity of 300 acre-feet. With a moderate risk assessment rating of 3, the dam is classified as having low hazard potential and is deemed to be in satisfactory condition as of its last assessment in July 2017.

Managed by a private owner, the Croswell Dam is regulated by the Michigan Department of Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy (EGLE), ensuring compliance with state permitting, inspection, and enforcement requirements. The dam's spillway, featuring an uncontrolled design with a width of 100 feet, is capable of discharging a maximum flow of 1,960 cubic feet per second. With a drainage area of 369 square miles and a surface area of 42 acres, the dam plays a crucial role in maintaining water levels for the surrounding area while minimizing potential risks to downstream communities.

As a key component of Michigan's water infrastructure, the Croswell Dam serves as a testament to the state's commitment to water resource management and climate resilience. With its historical significance and ongoing regulatory oversight, this dam continues to play a vital role in supporting water supply needs and mitigating potential hazards, ensuring the safety and sustainability of the surrounding environment for years to come.

Year Completed

1902

Dam Length

200

Dam Height

12

River Or Stream

Black River

Primary Dam Type

Concrete

Surface Area

42

Hydraulic Height

12

Drainage Area

369

Nid Storage

300

Structural Height

12

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

12
       
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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.