Tyler Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Tyler Dam, located in Belleville, Michigan, stands as a testament to engineering and nature's harmonious coexistence.


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Summary

Completed in 1942, this Gravity type dam spans 500 feet and reaches a height of 31.1 feet, harnessing the power of Willow Run Creek for recreational purposes. With a storage capacity of 205 acre-feet, the dam provides essential water resources for the surrounding area while offering a serene surface area of 12 acres for outdoor enthusiasts to explore.

Managed by the local government and regulated by the Michigan Department of Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy (MICHIGAN DEGLE), Tyler Dam boasts a satisfactory condition assessment as of September 2018. Despite its significant hazard potential, the dam's risk assessment remains moderate, indicating a proactive approach to risk management and emergency preparedness. The dam's uncontrolled spillway, with a width of 32 feet, ensures the safe release of excess water, further enhancing its safety and reliability for the community.

Debbie Dingell (D), the Congressional Representative for the area, oversees Tyler Dam's operations within the Buffalo District of the US Army Corps of Engineers. With regular inspections and a designated emergency action plan, this dam not only offers a recreational oasis but also serves as a model for responsible water resource management in the face of climate challenges. Tyler Dam stands as a testament to the delicate balance between human development and environmental conservation, showcasing the potential for sustainable coexistence between water resources and climate resilience.

Year Completed

1942

Dam Length

500

Dam Height

31.1

River Or Stream

Willow Run Creek

Primary Dam Type

Gravity

Surface Area

12

Hydraulic Height

25.5

Drainage Area

4.5

Nid Storage

205

Structural Height

31.1

Hazard Potential

Significant

Nid Height

31
       
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.