Palmer Bayou Dam, also known as Swan Creek Marsh Dam, is a gravity dam located in New Richmond, Michigan.
Built in 1952, this state-regulated structure serves a variety of purposes, including flood control and water storage along the Swan Creek. With a height of 11 feet and a hydraulic height of 8.8 feet, the dam spans 6900 feet in length and has a storage capacity of 2000 acre-feet.
Despite its low hazard potential and satisfactory condition assessment, Palmer Bayou Dam is monitored and inspected regularly by Michigan's Department of Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy (DEGLE). The dam features an uncontrolled spillway with a width of 27 feet, allowing for a maximum discharge of 450 cubic feet per second. In the event of an emergency, the dam's risk management measures are in place to ensure the safety of surrounding communities and infrastructure.
Overall, Palmer Bayou Dam plays a crucial role in managing water resources in Allegan County, Michigan, and contributes to the overall resilience of the local ecosystem. As climate change impacts continue to pose challenges to water infrastructure, the ongoing maintenance and monitoring of structures like Palmer Bayou Dam are essential to safeguarding communities and natural habitats in the region.
Wind
Humidity
Year Completed |
1952 |
Dam Length |
6900 |
Dam Height |
11 |
River Or Stream |
Swan Creek |
Primary Dam Type |
Gravity |
Surface Area |
340 |
Hydraulic Height |
8.8 |
Drainage Area |
1.4 |
Nid Storage |
2000 |
Structural Height |
11 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Nid Height |
11 |
Kalamazoo River At New Richmond
|
3350cfs |
Kalamazoo River Near New Richmond
|
4480cfs |
Macatawa River At State Road Near Zeeland
|
311cfs |
Rabbit River Near Hopkins
|
151cfs |
South Branch Black River Near Bangor
|
317cfs |
Grand River At Grand Rapids
|
6990cfs |
| Location | Reservations | Toilets |
|---|---|---|
Tri-ponds Family Camp Resort
|
||
Ely Lake Campground
|
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Silver Creek Campground
|