Dills Dam Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 5, 2025
Dills Dam, located in Eaton County, Michigan, is a privately owned structure designed by USDA NRCS with a primary purpose of recreation.
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Summary
Completed in 1968, this earth dam stands at a height of 25 feet and has a length of 750 feet, providing a normal storage capacity of 30 acre-feet with a maximum storage of 49 acre-feet. The dam controls a tributary to the Thornapple River, with a drainage area of 0.3 square miles and a maximum discharge capacity of 200 cubic feet per second.
Despite being classified as low hazard potential, Dills Dam presents a moderate risk due to its condition being unrated and lacking in updated emergency action plans and risk management measures. The dam features an uncontrolled spillway with a width of 4 feet and has not been inspected since January 1, 1901, with an inspection frequency of 5 years. The risk assessment for Dills Dam suggests a moderate level of concern (3) for potential hazards, indicating the need for improved safety measures and maintenance protocols to ensure the structure's stability and the protection of downstream communities.
Water resource and climate enthusiasts may find Dills Dam an intriguing subject for study and monitoring, given its historical significance, design features, and potential risk factors. As a key recreational asset in the area, the dam's management and maintenance play a crucial role in ensuring public safety and preserving the surrounding ecosystem. Further research and assessment of Dills Dam's condition, emergency preparedness, and risk mitigation strategies could contribute valuable insights to the broader conversation on dam safety and resilience in the face of changing climate conditions.
Year Completed |
1968 |
Dam Length |
750 |
Dam Height |
25 |
River Or Stream |
Tributary to Thornapple River |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
3 |
Hydraulic Height |
25 |
Drainage Area |
0.3 |
Nid Storage |
49 |
Structural Height |
25 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Nid Height |
25 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Looking Glass River Near Eagle
|
40cfs |
Grand River At Lansing
|
293cfs |
Grand River Near Eaton Rapids
|
207cfs |
Grand River At Portland
|
474cfs |
Sycamore Creek At Holt Road Near Holt
|
11cfs |
Red Cedar River At East Lansing
|
50cfs |
Dam Data Reference
Condition Assessment
SatisfactoryNo 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
HighDams 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.
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