Atles Mill Dam
Key Takeaway
Atles Mill Dam is classified as high hazard in Michigan. It was completed in 1914 and is 112 years old. Its primary use is recreation. High hazard means loss of life is likely if the dam fails — it does not indicate the dam's current condition. Learn more.
Physical Details
| Dam Height | 13 ft (taller than 39.7% in MI) |
| Dam Length | 1,580 ft |
| Dam Type | Earth |
| Max Storage | 490 acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 290 acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 67 acres |
| Drainage Area | 197 sq mi |
| Max Discharge | 2,251 cfs |
| Year Completed | 1914 (112 years old) |
| NID ID | MI00588 |
Safety Information
Loss of human life is likely if the dam fails.
Hazard potential describes downstream consequences of failure, not the dam's current condition. What does this mean?
Ownership
Water Wheel Estates
Private
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What is the hazard classification of Atles Mill Dam?
Atles Mill Dam is classified as High Hazard. Loss of human life is likely if the dam fails. This classification refers to the potential downstream consequences of a failure, not the dam's current structural condition.
Who owns and operates Atles Mill Dam?
Atles Mill Dam is owned by Water Wheel Estates (Private). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Atles Mill Dam built?
Atles Mill Dam was completed in 1914, making it 112 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 Atles Mill Dam?
Atles Mill 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 Atles Mill Dam?
Atles Mill Dam has a dam height of 13 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 Atles Mill Dam last inspected?
Atles Mill Dam was last inspected on September 9, 2015. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.