Ray C. Andres Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Located in Mecosta, Michigan, the Ray C.


°F

°F

mph

Wind

%

Humidity

Summary

Andres Dam, also known as Dalziel Creek Dam, stands as a testament to the importance of water resource management and climate resilience. Constructed in 1971 by the USDA NRCS, this private-owned earth dam serves primarily for recreation purposes along the Dalziel Creek. With a height of 15 feet and a length of 800 feet, the dam has a storage capacity of 102 acre-feet, providing essential water resources for the surrounding area.

Managed by the Michigan Department of Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy, the dam is regulated, inspected, and enforced to ensure its safety and functionality. The dam's spillway, with a width of 80 feet, helps control water discharge during periods of heavy rainfall, reducing the risk of flooding downstream. Despite its low hazard potential and satisfactory condition assessment, the dam is subject to moderate risk due to its age and the surrounding environmental factors.

For water resource and climate enthusiasts, the Ray C. Andres Dam serves as a vital infrastructure that highlights the intersection between human development and environmental stewardship. With its strategic location in Big Rapids and proximity to the Chicago District, the dam stands as a beacon of responsible water management, offering a glimpse into the intricate balance between recreation, conservation, and climate resilience. As we continue to face challenges posed by climate change, dams like Ray C. Andres play a crucial role in safeguarding our water resources for future generations.

Year Completed

1971

Dam Length

800

Dam Height

15

River Or Stream

Dalziel Creek

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

6

Hydraulic Height

15

Drainage Area

7.1

Nid Storage

102

Structural Height

15

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

15
       
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.