Chikaming Springs Farm Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Chikaming Springs Farm Dam, located in New Buffalo, Michigan, is a locally owned earth dam designed by USDA NRCS for recreation purposes.


°F

°F

mph

Wind

%

Humidity

Summary

Completed in 1968, this dam stands at a height of 27.5 feet and has a hydraulic height of 26.5 feet, with a maximum storage capacity of 102 acre-feet and a normal storage of 81 acre-feet. Situated on a tributary to the Galien River, the dam serves as a recreational spot for water resource and climate enthusiasts in the area.

Managed by the Michigan DEGLE, this dam has a low hazard potential and is currently in fair condition as of the last inspection in November 2019. With a spillway type of uncontrolled and a spillway width of 22 feet, the dam poses a moderate risk (rated 3) according to the risk assessment. Despite its moderate risk level, the dam continues to provide a safe and enjoyable environment for visitors, offering a surface area of 7 acres and a maximum discharge of 229 cubic feet per second.

With its picturesque location and recreational amenities, Chikaming Springs Farm Dam stands as a vital water resource structure in Berrien County, Michigan. As it continues to be regulated, inspected, and maintained by the state authorities, this dam remains a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts seeking to explore the beauty of the surrounding natural landscape while also supporting water conservation efforts in the region.

Year Completed

1968

Dam Length

240

Dam Height

27.5

River Or Stream

Tributary to Galien River

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

7

Hydraulic Height

26.5

Drainage Area

0.15

Nid Storage

102

Structural Height

27.5

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

28
       
Seasonal Comparison

Weather Forecast

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.
View more

Area Campgrounds