Elk Rapids

Elk Creek· Antrim, Michigan· Built 1916· Gravity· 21 ft tall
Low Hazard Hydroelectric Local Government

Key Takeaway

Elk Rapids is classified as low hazard in Michigan. It was completed in 1916 and is 110 years old. Its primary use is hydroelectric.

Physical Details

Dam Height 21 ft (taller than 74.1% in MI)
Dam Length87 ft
Dam TypeGravity
Max Storage75.0K acre-ft
Normal Storage75.0K acre-ft
Surface Area34 acres
Drainage Area513 sq mi
Max Discharge490 cfs
Year Completed1916 (110 years old)
NID IDMI00517

Safety Information

Low Hazard

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?

Emergency Action Plan: No
Last Inspection: July 14, 2022
State Regulated: Yes
Regulatory Agency: MICHIGAN DEGLE

Ownership

Antrim County

Local Government

Nearby Dams

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the hazard classification of Elk Rapids?

Elk Rapids 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 Elk Rapids?

Elk Rapids is owned by Antrim County (Local Government). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.

When was Elk Rapids built?

Elk Rapids was completed in 1916, making it 110 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 Elk Rapids?

Elk Rapids serves the following purposes: Hydroelectric. Many dams in the U.S. are multi-purpose, supporting flood control, water supply, recreation, and other uses.

How tall is Elk Rapids?

Elk Rapids has a dam height of 21 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 Elk Rapids last inspected?

Elk Rapids was last inspected on July 14, 2022. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.

Data from the National Inventory of Dams (NID) maintained by the US Army Corps of Engineers. Dam conditions may have changed since the last update. This site is not affiliated with USACE. Do not use for emergency planning — contact your local dam safety program.