Browns Pond Dam
Key Takeaway
Browns Pond Dam is classified as significant hazard in Michigan. It was completed in 1844 and is 182 years old. Its primary use is recreation. Significant hazard means failure could cause economic or environmental damage. Learn more.
Physical Details
| Dam Height | 16 ft (taller than 55.7% in MI) |
| Dam Length | 260 ft |
| Dam Type | Earth |
| Max Storage | 125 acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 70 acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 15 acres |
| Drainage Area | 8 sq mi |
| Max Discharge | 230 cfs |
| Year Completed | 1844 (182 years old) |
| NID ID | MI00228 |
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
Blue Lake Township
Local Government
Nearby Dams
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Browns Pond Dam?
Browns Pond 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 Browns Pond Dam?
Browns Pond Dam is owned by Blue Lake Township (Local Government). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Browns Pond Dam built?
Browns Pond Dam was completed in 1844, making it 182 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 Browns Pond Dam?
Browns Pond 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 Browns Pond Dam?
Browns Pond Dam has a dam height of 16 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 Browns Pond Dam last inspected?
Browns Pond Dam was last inspected on May 8, 2015. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.