Big Quinnesec Falls
Key Takeaway
Big Quinnesec Falls is classified as high hazard in Michigan. It was completed in 1949 and is 77 years old. Its primary use is hydroelectric. 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 | 77 ft (taller than 98.7% in MI) |
| Dam Length | 530 ft |
| Dam Type | Concrete |
| Max Storage | 3.8K acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 3.8K acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 272 acres |
| Drainage Area | 2,475 sq mi |
| Max Discharge | 61,430 cfs |
| Year Completed | 1949 (77 years old) |
| NID ID | MI00103 |
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
Wisconsin Electric Power Company
Public Utility
Nearby Dams
Big Quinnesec Falls
Marinette, WI
High Hazard 82 ftLittle Quinnesec Falls
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High Hazard 22 ftLittle Quinnesec Falls Dam
Dickinson, MI
High Hazard 65 ftKingsford
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Significant Hazard 35 ftKingsford
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Low Hazard 38 ftTwin Falls
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High Hazard 56 ftTwin Falls
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High Hazard 35 ftCarollo Dam
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Low Hazard 8 ftFrequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Big Quinnesec Falls?
Big Quinnesec Falls 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 Big Quinnesec Falls?
Big Quinnesec Falls is owned by Wisconsin Electric Power Company (Public Utility). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Big Quinnesec Falls built?
Big Quinnesec Falls was completed in 1949, making it 77 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 Big Quinnesec Falls?
Big Quinnesec Falls serves the following purposes: Hydroelectric, Recreation. Many dams in the U.S. are multi-purpose, supporting flood control, water supply, recreation, and other uses.
How tall is Big Quinnesec Falls?
Big Quinnesec Falls has a dam height of 77 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 Quinnesec Falls last inspected?
Big Quinnesec Falls was last inspected on June 15, 2022. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.