Cross Dike Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Cross Dike Dam, also known as Structure #2, is a state-owned earth dam located in New Richmond, Michigan, along Swan Creek.


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Summary

Built in 1959, this dam serves primarily for recreational purposes, offering a surface area of 109 acres and a maximum storage capacity of 660 acre-feet. With a structural height of 10.5 feet and a hydraulic height of 7.8 feet, the dam has a low hazard potential and is in satisfactory condition as of the last assessment in October 2019.

Managed by the Michigan Department of Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy (DEGLE), Cross Dike Dam is regulated, permitted, inspected, and enforced by the state agency. The dam features an uncontrolled spillway with a width of 12 feet and a maximum discharge capacity of 75 cubic feet per second. While no associated structures or locks are present, the dam's drainage area is relatively small at 0.4 square miles. The risk assessment for Cross Dike Dam is moderate (3), indicating a need for ongoing monitoring and risk management measures to ensure its continued safety and functionality.

Enthusiasts of water resources and climate will appreciate the significance of Cross Dike Dam in providing both recreational opportunities and flood control along Swan Creek. Its location, design, and management by state authorities showcase a commitment to water resource management and public safety. As one of Michigan's notable earth dams, Cross Dike Dam stands as a vital infrastructure piece in the region, contributing to water storage, flood protection, and environmental stewardship efforts.

Year Completed

1959

Dam Length

7000

Dam Height

10.5

River Or Stream

Swan Creek

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

109

Hydraulic Height

7.8

Drainage Area

0.4

Nid Storage

660

Structural Height

10.5

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

11
       
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.