Vitton Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Vitton Dam, also known as Vitton Pond Dam, is a private-owned structure located in Houghton, Michigan, along the Boston Creek.


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Summary

Built in 1960 by USDA NRCS, this earth-type dam stands at 7 feet tall with a hydraulic height of 10 feet and a length of 1100 feet. The dam serves primarily for irrigation purposes, with a maximum storage capacity of 300 acre-feet and an impressive surface area of 107 acres.

Despite being classified as a low hazard potential structure, Vitton Dam is regulated, permitted, inspected, and enforced by the Michigan Department of Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy (EGLE). The dam features an uncontrolled spillway with a width of 90 feet, designed to manage potential overflow during extreme weather events. The risk assessment for the dam is moderate, indicating the need for ongoing monitoring and management measures to ensure its safety and functionality.

With its historical significance and importance for irrigation in the region, Vitton Dam serves as a key asset for water resource management in the area. Enthusiasts of water resources and climate will find the engineering and operational details of this dam intriguing, highlighting the delicate balance between water storage, regulation, and environmental protection in the region.

Year Completed

1960

Dam Length

1100

Dam Height

7

River Or Stream

Boston Creek

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

107

Hydraulic Height

10

Drainage Area

1.8

Nid Storage

300

Structural Height

7

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

10
       
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.