Pickerel (Bergess Lake) Dam Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 5, 2025
The Pickerel (Bergess Lake) Dam, located in Big Rapids, Michigan, stands as a testament to water resource management and climate resilience.
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Summary
Completed in 1971, this privately owned dam on Ryan Creek serves a primary purpose that goes beyond traditional flood control or water supply - it is designated for "Other" purposes, reflecting a holistic approach to water management. With a height of 13 feet and a storage capacity of 700 acre-feet, the dam plays a crucial role in regulating water flow and providing recreational opportunities in the area.
Despite its low hazard potential and satisfactory condition assessment, the Pickerel Dam is subject to regular inspections every five years to ensure its safety and functionality. The dam features an uncontrolled spillway with a width of 44 feet, allowing excess water to be safely released during high flow events. The risk assessment for this dam is moderate (3), indicating a proactive approach to risk management and emergency preparedness. Overall, the Pickerel (Bergess Lake) Dam serves as a model for sustainable water infrastructure that balances environmental protection, water supply, and public safety in the face of changing climate patterns.
As climate change continues to impact water resources, the Pickerel Dam stands as a vital piece of infrastructure in the Mecosta County watershed. With its location in the Ryan Creek watershed, the dam plays a critical role in managing water flow and storage, especially during periods of increased precipitation and runoff. The dam's ability to store up to 700 acre-feet of water and its controlled release mechanisms help mitigate flood risks downstream while also providing essential water supply for various uses. As a privately owned structure, the Pickerel (Bergess Lake) Dam showcases the importance of collaboration between public and private entities in safeguarding water resources for future generations.
Year Completed |
1971 |
Dam Length |
200 |
Dam Height |
13 |
River Or Stream |
Ryan Creek |
Primary Dam Type |
Other |
Surface Area |
60 |
Hydraulic Height |
2 |
Nid Storage |
700 |
Structural Height |
13 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Nid Height |
13 |
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.
Area Campgrounds
| Location | Reservations | Toilets |
|---|---|---|
Cran-Hill Ranch
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Haymarsh State Game Area
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Blodgett Landing
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Tubbs Lake State Forest Campground
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Hungerford Lake
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School Section Lake Park
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Pickerel (Bergess Lake) Dam
Public Road Colfax Township