Beckwith Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Beckwith Dam, located in Grand Rapids, Michigan, serves as a critical structure for flood risk reduction along a tributary to Lamberton Creek.


°F

°F

mph

Wind

%

Humidity

Summary

Completed in 1999, this private-owned earth dam stands at a height of 27.7 feet and has a hydraulic height of 18.9 feet, providing important protection to the surrounding area. With a normal storage capacity of 23 acre-feet and a maximum storage of 124 acre-feet, Beckwith Dam plays a vital role in managing water resources in the region.

Despite its low hazard potential and satisfactory condition assessment, Beckwith Dam is subject to state regulation, inspection, and enforcement by the Michigan Department of Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy. Its uncontrolled spillway and moderate risk assessment underline the importance of proper monitoring and maintenance to ensure the safety and effectiveness of this flood risk reduction structure. The dam's location in Kent County, Michigan, highlights its significance in safeguarding the local community from potential flooding events.

In the event of an emergency, it is crucial for Beckwith Dam to have an effective Emergency Action Plan (EAP) in place to guide appropriate responses. While details on the EAP status are currently unavailable, ongoing risk management measures and regular inspections contribute to the overall resilience of Beckwith Dam. As a key component of water resource infrastructure in the area, this dam serves as a testament to the importance of proactive monitoring and maintenance to mitigate potential risks and protect the surrounding environment and community.

Year Completed

1999

Dam Length

240

Dam Height

27.7

River Or Stream

Tributary to Lamberton Creek

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

6.8

Hydraulic Height

18.9

Drainage Area

0.11

Nid Storage

124

Structural Height

27.7

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

28
       
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.