Berrien Springs Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

The Berrien Springs Dam, located in Berrien Springs, Michigan, is a gravity dam constructed in 1908 on the Saint Joseph River.


°F

°F

mph

Wind

%

Humidity

Summary

With a height of 36 feet and a hydraulic height of 31.5 feet, the dam serves primarily for hydroelectric purposes, providing a maximum storage capacity of 6,400 acre-feet and a normal storage of 5,500 acre-feet. The dam boasts a spillway width of 270 feet and a maximum discharge capacity of 61,000 cubic feet per second, making it a crucial structure for water resource management in the region.

Owned privately, the Berrien Springs Dam is regulated by the Michigan DEGLE agency and is subject to state inspection, permitting, and enforcement. The dam's condition assessment as of November 2019 was deemed satisfactory, with a high hazard potential due to its location and size. Despite the risks associated with its very high risk assessment rating, the dam continues to play a vital role in the region's water resource management, providing not only hydroelectric power but also contributing to flood control and recreation opportunities.

In the event of an emergency, the dam's Emergency Action Plan (EAP) is expected to meet guidelines, although the last revision date was noted as December 2020. With its historical significance, high hazard potential, and critical role in water resource management, the Berrien Springs Dam stands as a testament to the importance of sustainable infrastructure for climate enthusiasts and water resource professionals alike.

Year Completed

1908

Dam Length

1425

Dam Height

36

River Or Stream

Saint Joseph River

Primary Dam Type

Gravity

Surface Area

600

Hydraulic Height

31.5

Drainage Area

4081

Nid Storage

6400

Structural Height

36

Hazard Potential

High

Nid Height

36
       
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.