County Line Flooding Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

County Line Flooding Dam, also known as Flat River Sga #17, is a state-owned earth dam located in Belding, Michigan.


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Summary

Built in 1968, the dam serves a primary purpose of recreation and spans 230 feet in length with a height of 11.3 feet. It has a maximum storage capacity of 220 acre-feet, with a normal storage level of 65 acre-feet and a surface area of 29 acres. The dam is regulated and inspected by the Michigan Department of Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy (DEGLE), ensuring that it meets safety standards for the surrounding community.

The dam is situated on a tributary to the Flat River and has a low hazard potential with a satisfactory condition assessment as of May 2016. It features an uncontrolled spillway with a width of 2 feet and a maximum discharge capacity of 146 cubic feet per second. The risk assessment for the dam is moderate, indicating a level 3 risk, with no specific risk management measures identified. The dam's emergency action plan status and adherence to guidelines are not specified in the data, highlighting a potential area for improvement in terms of emergency preparedness.

Overall, County Line Flooding Dam provides recreational opportunities for the local community while also serving as a vital structure for water resource management. With its regulated state jurisdiction, regular inspections, and moderate risk assessment, the dam plays a crucial role in flood control and water storage in Montcalm County, Michigan. Its continued maintenance and adherence to safety protocols are essential for ensuring the resilience of the surrounding landscape in the face of changing climate conditions.

Year Completed

1968

Dam Length

230

Dam Height

11.3

River Or Stream

Tributary to Flat River

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

29

Hydraulic Height

6.5

Drainage Area

0.5

Nid Storage

220

Structural Height

11.3

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

11
       
Seasonal Comparison

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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.