Bellaire Dam
Key Takeaway
Bellaire Dam is classified as high hazard in Michigan. It was completed in 1906 and is 120 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 | 18 ft (taller than 63.6% in MI) |
| Dam Length | 213 ft |
| Dam Type | Earth |
| Max Storage | 12.2K acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 6.2K acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 1,520 acres |
| Drainage Area | 145 sq mi |
| Max Discharge | 1,150 cfs |
| Year Completed | 1906 (120 years old) |
| NID ID | MI00435 |
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
Antrim County Board of Public Works
Private
Nearby Dams
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Bellaire Dam?
Bellaire 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 Bellaire Dam?
Bellaire Dam is owned by Antrim County Board of Public Works (Private). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Bellaire Dam built?
Bellaire Dam was completed in 1906, making it 120 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 Bellaire Dam?
Bellaire 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 Bellaire Dam?
Bellaire Dam has a dam height of 18 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 Bellaire Dam last inspected?
Bellaire Dam was last inspected on November 2, 2018. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.