Hillsdale College Dam Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 5, 2025
The Hillsdale College Dam, also known as the Emery Creek Dam, is a private earth dam located in Hillsdale, Michigan.
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Summary
It is regulated by the Michigan Department of Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy, with permits, inspections, and enforcement in place to ensure its safety and compliance. The dam stands at a height of 8.5 feet and has a storage capacity of 145 acre-feet, serving as a tributary to the St Joseph River.
Despite its low hazard potential and satisfactory condition assessment, the dam has an uncontrolled spillway type with a width of 3 feet. The last inspection took place in 2009, with a designated inspection frequency of 5 years. The dam poses a moderate risk, with risk management measures yet to be specified. Located in a picturesque setting, the Hillsdale College Dam is a focal point for water resource and climate enthusiasts interested in the intricate balance of human-made infrastructure and natural ecosystems.
Dam Length |
300 |
Dam Height |
8.5 |
River Or Stream |
Tributary to St Joseph River |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
30 |
Hydraulic Height |
8.5 |
Nid Storage |
145 |
Structural Height |
8.5 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Nid Height |
9 |
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.
Hillsdale College Dam