James Bicknell Iii Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: Shamrock Lake Dam Five Lakes Dam
Last Updated: December 5, 2025
The James Bicknell III Dam, located in Beaverton, Michigan, is a privately owned structure built in 1971 for recreational purposes.
°F
°F
mph
Wind
%
Humidity
Summary
This earth dam stands at a height of 12 feet and has a length of 212 feet, creating a reservoir with a normal storage capacity of 69 acre-feet. The dam is situated on the Tr South Branch Tobacco River, within Clare County, Michigan, and is regulated by the Michigan DEGLE.
Despite its low hazard potential and satisfactory condition assessment, the dam has a moderate risk rating, indicating the need for ongoing monitoring and risk management measures. The spillway of the James Bicknell III Dam is uncontrolled, with a width of 69 feet, and it has a maximum discharge capacity of 375 cubic feet per second. The dam underwent its last inspection in October 2015, with a scheduled inspection frequency of every 5 years to ensure its continued safety and functionality. For water resource and climate enthusiasts, the James Bicknell III Dam offers a fascinating example of how human-built structures can impact local waterways and ecosystems.
Year Completed |
1971 |
Dam Length |
212 |
Dam Height |
12 |
River Or Stream |
Tr South Branch Tobacco River |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
14 |
Hydraulic Height |
12 |
Drainage Area |
0.51 |
Nid Storage |
155 |
Structural Height |
12 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Nid Height |
12 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
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.
James Bicknell Iii Dam
Washington Road 4863, Grant Township