Steenwyk Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Steenwyk Dam, also known as Black Creek Watershed Structure 8, is a local government-owned structure located in Holland, Michigan.


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Summary

Constructed in 1990 by Capital Con and USDA-SCS designers, this earth dam stands at a height of 28 feet with a hydraulic height of 26 feet, serving primarily for flood risk reduction in the area. The dam boasts a normal storage capacity of 34 acre-feet and a drainage area of 0.26 square miles, providing essential protection to the surrounding community.

With a low hazard potential and a satisfactory condition assessment, Steenwyk Dam is regulated, inspected, and enforced by the Michigan DEGLE agency to ensure its continued safety and functionality. The dam features an uncontrolled spillway type with a width of 1 foot, allowing for controlled release of excess water. Despite its moderate risk assessment rating, the dam has not undergone any significant modifications since its completion, and emergency action plans are in place to address any potential incidents that may arise.

Water resource and climate enthusiasts will appreciate the critical role that Steenwyk Dam plays in mitigating flood risks and protecting the local ecosystem. Its strategic location along a tributary to the Macatawa River highlights its importance in managing water flow and maintaining the ecological balance of the region. As a well-maintained and regulated structure, Steenwyk Dam stands as a testament to effective water resource management and serves as a vital asset in safeguarding the community against natural disasters.

Year Completed

1990

Dam Length

200

Dam Height

28

River Or Stream

Tributary to Macatawa River

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

6

Hydraulic Height

26

Drainage Area

0.26

Nid Storage

65

Structural Height

28

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Soil

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.