Taylor Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Taylor Dam in Pavilion, Michigan, stands as a vital structure along the Portage River, serving primarily for recreational purposes since its completion in 1929.


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Summary

This privately-owned Earth-type dam boasts a height of 13 feet and a length of 400 feet, with a storage capacity of 84 acre-feet. Managed by the Michigan Department of Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy (DEGLE), the dam is subject to state regulation, inspection, and enforcement to ensure its continued safety and functionality.

Despite its low hazard potential and moderate risk assessment, Taylor Dam has not been rated for its current condition. The last inspection dates back to June 1993, with an inspection frequency of every 5 years. While emergency action plans and inundation maps are not available, the dam's uncontrolled spillway and 130 cubic feet per second maximum discharge capacity suggest a level of preparedness for potential flooding events. With its location in Kalamazoo County and alignment with state jurisdiction and regulations, Taylor Dam remains an essential feature in the local water resource management landscape.

Enthusiasts of water resources and climate in Michigan can appreciate the historical significance and recreational value that Taylor Dam brings to the Pavilion community. As a symbol of human interaction with the environment, this dam serves as a reminder of the delicate balance between water management, safety, and sustainable recreation. With ongoing state oversight and periodic inspections, Taylor Dam stands as a testament to the collaborative efforts required to maintain and protect our water resources in a changing climate.

Year Completed

1929

Dam Length

400

Dam Height

13

River Or Stream

Portage River

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

42

Hydraulic Height

13

Drainage Area

5.4

Nid Storage

84

Structural Height

13

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

13
       
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.