Welch Dam, formerly known as O'Leary Dam #2, is a private structure located in Berrien, Michigan, that serves as a key component in managing the water resources of the tributary to Paw Paw River.
Wind
Humidity
This earth dam stands at a height of 10 feet, with a hydraulic height of 9.5 feet and a length of 300 feet. It has a storage capacity of 76 acre-feet, with a normal storage level of 60 acre-feet.
Despite its low hazard potential, Welch Dam is currently in poor condition, as assessed during the last inspection in July 2002. The dam's risk assessment has been classified as moderate, indicating a need for potential management measures to ensure its continued safety and functionality. With state regulation and oversight from the Michigan DEGLE, Welch Dam plays a crucial role in water resource management in the area, highlighting the importance of maintaining and monitoring such structures in the face of changing climate conditions.
Dam Length |
300 |
Dam Height |
10 |
River Or Stream |
Tributary to Paw Paw |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
10 |
Hydraulic Height |
9.5 |
Drainage Area |
0.22 |
Nid Storage |
76 |
Structural Height |
10 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Nid Height |
10 |
Paw Paw River At Riverside
|
373cfs |
South Branch Black River Near Bangor
|
55cfs |
Dowagiac River At Sumnerville
|
276cfs |
Galien River Near Sawyer
|
41cfs |
St. Joseph River At Niles
|
2360cfs |
Juday Creek Near South Bend
|
12cfs |
| Location | Reservations | Toilets |
|---|---|---|
Paw Paw River Campgrounds
|
||
Eden Springs
|
||
Covert Park Beach and Campground
|
||
Covert Park
|
||
Youth Campground
|
||
Van Buren State Park
|