Elsie Dam
Key Takeaway
Elsie Dam is classified as low hazard in Michigan. It was completed in 1840 and is 186 years old. Its primary use is recreation.
Physical Details
| Dam Height | 13 ft (taller than 39.7% in MI) |
| Dam Length | 231 ft |
| Dam Type | Concrete |
| Max Storage | 80 acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 60 acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 32 acres |
| Drainage Area | 192 sq mi |
| Max Discharge | 2,455 cfs |
| Year Completed | 1840 (186 years old) |
| NID ID | MI00046 |
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
Duplain Township
Local Government
Nearby Dams
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Elsie Dam?
Elsie 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 Elsie Dam?
Elsie Dam is owned by Duplain Township (Local Government). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Elsie Dam built?
Elsie Dam was completed in 1840, making it 186 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 Elsie Dam?
Elsie 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 Elsie Dam?
Elsie Dam has a dam height of 13 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 Elsie Dam last inspected?
Elsie Dam was last inspected on October 25, 2017. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.