Albion Dam

South Branch Kalamazoo River· Calhoun, Michigan· Built 1856· Gravity· 11 ft tall
Significant Hazard Recreation Local Government

Key Takeaway

Albion Dam is classified as significant hazard in Michigan. It was completed in 1856 and is 170 years old. Its primary use is recreation. Significant hazard means failure could cause economic or environmental damage. Learn more.

Physical Details

Dam Height 11 ft (taller than 26.9% in MI)
Dam Length150 ft
Dam TypeGravity
Max Storage941 acre-ft
Normal Storage600 acre-ft
Surface Area42 acres
Drainage Area153 sq mi
Max Discharge530 cfs
Year Completed1856 (170 years old)
NID IDMI00495

Safety Information

Significant Hazard

No probable loss of human life, but can cause economic loss, environmental damage, or disruption of lifeline facilities.

Hazard potential describes downstream consequences of failure, not the dam's current condition. What does this mean?

Emergency Action Plan: Yes
Last Inspection: November 8, 2017
State Regulated: Yes
Regulatory Agency: MICHIGAN DEGLE

Ownership

City of Albion

Local Government

Nearby Dams

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the hazard classification of Albion Dam?

Albion Dam is classified as Significant Hazard. No probable loss of human life, but can cause economic loss, environmental damage, or disruption of lifeline facilities. This classification refers to the potential downstream consequences of a failure, not the dam's current structural condition.

Who owns and operates Albion Dam?

Albion Dam is owned by City of Albion (Local Government). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.

When was Albion Dam built?

Albion Dam was completed in 1856, making it 170 years old. Many U.S. dams were built between the 1930s and 1970s during a period of major infrastructure investment.

What is the primary purpose of Albion Dam?

Albion Dam serves the following purposes: Recreation. Many dams in the U.S. are multi-purpose, supporting flood control, water supply, recreation, and other uses.

How tall is Albion Dam?

Albion Dam has a dam height of 11 ft. Dam height is measured from the natural streambed at the downstream toe to the top of the dam, and may differ from the visible height.

When was Albion Dam last inspected?

Albion Dam was last inspected on November 8, 2017. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.

Data from the National Inventory of Dams (NID) maintained by the US Army Corps of Engineers. Dam conditions may have changed since the last update. This site is not affiliated with USACE. Do not use for emergency planning — contact your local dam safety program.