Bessemer Township Park Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: Sunday Lake Dam Mcdonald Lake Dam
Last Updated: December 5, 2025
Bessemer Township Park Dam, located in Ramsay, Michigan, along the Black River, serves as a vital recreational resource for the community.
°F
°F
mph
Wind
%
Humidity
Summary
This earth dam, standing at 11 feet high and stretching 200 feet in length, was completed in 1936 and has a storage capacity of 190 acre-feet. With a spillway width of 105 feet and a maximum discharge of 1340 cubic feet per second, the dam's hazard potential is rated as low, making it a safe and enjoyable location for outdoor activities.
Despite being last inspected in 1979, with a moderate risk assessment rating, the condition of Bessemer Township Park Dam is currently unrated. Although it is not regulated or permitted by the state, the dam still plays a crucial role in providing water storage and recreational opportunities for the local community. While the emergency action plan status and risk management measures are unspecified, the dam continues to stand as a testament to the importance of water resource management and climate resilience in the region.
As water resource and climate enthusiasts explore the rich history and functionality of Bessemer Township Park Dam, they can appreciate its role in maintaining the delicate balance between recreation and safety. With its low hazard potential and moderate risk assessment, the dam stands as a reminder of the importance of monitoring and maintaining such structures to ensure the well-being of both the environment and the community. As efforts to address climate change continue, the significance of dams like Bessemer Township Park Dam in providing essential services and enhancing the quality of life for residents becomes increasingly apparent.
Year Completed |
1936 |
Dam Length |
200 |
Dam Height |
11 |
River Or Stream |
Black River |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
4 |
Hydraulic Height |
11 |
Nid Storage |
190 |
Structural Height |
11 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Nid Height |
11 |
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.
Bessemer Township Park Dam
Norrie Park
Curry Park
Gile County Park
Underwood Wildlife Area