Springville Mill Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Springville Mill Dam, located in Springville, Michigan, is a local government-owned structure on Wolf Creek.


°F

°F

mph

Wind

%

Humidity

Summary

Completed in 1952, this Earth dam stands at a height of 25 feet and serves primarily for recreational purposes. The dam has a controlled spillway with a width of 8 feet and a maximum discharge capacity of 250 cubic feet per second. It has a storage capacity of 725 acre-feet, with a normal storage level of 425 acre-feet, covering a surface area of 62 acres.

Despite being assessed as in fair condition during the last inspection in January 2021, the dam has a significant hazard potential and is under the regulatory jurisdiction of the Michigan Department of Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy (DEGLE). With a very high risk rating assigned, the dam is closely monitored, inspected, and maintained to ensure public safety. The Emergency Action Plan (EAP) for the dam was last revised in March 2018, indicating preparedness for potential emergencies.

Springville Mill Dam stands as a vital structure for both water resource management and recreational activities in Lenawee County. Its presence on Wolf Creek not only contributes to the local landscape but also provides opportunities for outdoor enjoyment. Climate and water resource enthusiasts would find this dam an intriguing subject for study and observation, given its historical significance and ongoing regulatory oversight to mitigate potential risks.

Year Completed

1952

Dam Length

210

Dam Height

25

River Or Stream

Wolf Creek

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

62

Hydraulic Height

22.9

Drainage Area

3.3

Nid Storage

725

Structural Height

25

Hazard Potential

Significant

Nid Height

25
       
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.