Baw Beese Lake Dam Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 5, 2025
Located in Hillsdale, Michigan, the Baw Beese Lake Dam, also known as the Baw Beese Lake Level Control Dam, was completed in 1979 with a primary purpose of recreation.
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Summary
The dam, made of concrete, stands at a height of 6.2 feet with a hydraulic height of 4.3 feet. It controls the flow of the St. Joseph River and has a spillway width of 5 feet. The dam's normal storage capacity is 430 acre-feet, providing a surface area of 475 acres for recreational activities.
Despite being privately owned, the Baw Beese Lake Dam is regulated by the state of Michigan with inspections occurring every five years. The dam's hazard potential is classified as low, and its condition was assessed as satisfactory during the last inspection in October 2019. While the risk assessment for the dam is rated as very high, measures for risk management and emergency preparedness are not specified in the available data. Enthusiasts of water resources and climate in the area can appreciate the role of the Baw Beese Lake Dam in providing recreational opportunities while ensuring the safety of the surrounding community.
Year Completed |
1979 |
Dam Height |
6.2 |
River Or Stream |
St. Joseph River |
Primary Dam Type |
Concrete |
Surface Area |
475 |
Hydraulic Height |
4.3 |
Nid Storage |
1950 |
Structural Height |
6.2 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Nid Height |
6 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
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.
Baw Beese Lake Dam