Buttermilk Creek Detention Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Buttermilk Creek Detention Dam, also known as Rush Creek Phase III Dam, is a private structure located in Ottawa, Michigan.


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Summary

Built in 2000, this earth-type dam stands at a height of 13 feet and spans 480 feet along Buttermilk Creek. Its primary purpose is flood risk reduction, with a storage capacity of 240 acre-feet. Despite its vital role in mitigating flood risks, the dam has been assessed as having poor condition and a high hazard potential, highlighting the need for maintenance and potential upgrades.

Managed by private owners, the Buttermilk Creek Detention Dam is regulated by the Michigan Department of Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy (DEGLE). The dam has a moderate risk assessment rating and is equipped with an uncontrolled spillway with a width of 14 feet. Its last inspection in June 2017 revealed the need for improvements, emphasizing the importance of regular monitoring and maintenance to ensure the safety and effectiveness of the structure.

Located in a rural area in Ottawa County, Michigan, the Buttermilk Creek Detention Dam plays a crucial role in protecting the surrounding community from potential flooding events. With a drainage area of 1.6 square miles and a maximum discharge capacity of 400 cubic feet per second, the dam serves as a vital infrastructure for water resource management in the region. As climate change continues to impact weather patterns, the maintenance and upkeep of such structures are essential for safeguarding communities against the increasing threat of floods.

Year Completed

2000

Dam Length

480

Dam Height

13

River Or Stream

Buttermilk Creek

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Hydraulic Height

12

Drainage Area

1.6

Nid Storage

240

Structural Height

13

Hazard Potential

High

Nid Height

13
       
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.