Big Drake Dam
Key Takeaway
Big Drake Dam is classified as low hazard in Michigan. Its primary use is recreation.
Physical Details
| Dam Height | 9 ft (taller than 14.1% in MI) |
| Dam Type | Earth |
| Max Storage | 175 acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 145 acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 32 acres |
| NID ID | MI02689 |
Safety Information
No probable loss of human life and low economic/environmental losses expected.
Hazard potential describes downstream consequences of failure, not the dam's current condition. What does this mean?
Ownership
Michigan North Woods Club
Private
Nearby Dams
Trout Lake Dam
Marquette, MI
Low Hazard 11 ftEtb Waterway Dams
Marquette, MI
Low Hazard 20 ftGunnel Dam
Dickinson, MI
Low Hazard 11 ftEmpire Mine Secondary Pond Dam
Marquette, MI
Low Hazard 30 ftEmpire Mine Tailings Basin Dam
Marquette, MI
Significant Hazard 163 ftEmpire Mine Tertiary Pond Dam
Marquette, MI
Low Hazard 90 ftTilden Recirculation Basin
Marquette, MI
High Hazard 95 ftGreenwood Afterbay Dam
Marquette, MI
Significant Hazard 41 ftFrequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Big Drake Dam?
Big Drake Dam is classified as Low Hazard. No probable loss of human life and low economic/environmental losses expected. This classification refers to the potential downstream consequences of a failure, not the dam's current structural condition.
Who owns and operates Big Drake Dam?
Big Drake Dam is owned by Michigan North Woods Club (Private). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
What is the primary purpose of Big Drake Dam?
Big Drake 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 Big Drake Dam?
Big Drake Dam has a dam height of 9 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 Big Drake Dam last inspected?
Big Drake Dam was last inspected on August 24, 2019. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.