Atlas Dam
Key Takeaway
Atlas Dam is classified as significant hazard in Michigan. It was completed in 1835 and is 191 years old. Its primary use is recreation. Significant hazard means failure could cause economic or environmental damage. Learn more.
Physical Details
| Dam Height | 22 ft (taller than 77.5% in MI) |
| Dam Length | 270 ft |
| Dam Type | Earth |
| Max Storage | 505 acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 310 acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 43 acres |
| Drainage Area | 50 sq mi |
| Max Discharge | 1,770 cfs |
| Year Completed | 1835 (191 years old) |
| NID ID | MI00057 |
Safety Information
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?
Ownership
Genesee County Road Commission
Local Government
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What is the hazard classification of Atlas Dam?
Atlas 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 Atlas Dam?
Atlas Dam is owned by Genesee County Road Commission (Local Government). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Atlas Dam built?
Atlas Dam was completed in 1835, making it 191 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 Atlas Dam?
Atlas 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 Atlas Dam?
Atlas Dam has a dam height of 22 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 Atlas Dam last inspected?
Atlas Dam was last inspected on August 14, 2018. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.