Foote

Au Sable River· Iosco, Michigan· Built 1918· Gravity· 47 ft tall
High Hazard Hydroelectric Public Utility

Key Takeaway

Foote is classified as high hazard in Michigan. It was completed in 1918 and is 108 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 47 ft (taller than 96.2% in MI)
Dam Length4,100 ft
Dam TypeGravity
Max Storage30.0K acre-ft
Normal Storage30.0K acre-ft
Surface Area1,800 acres
Drainage Area1,832 sq mi
Max Discharge22,500 cfs
Year Completed1918 (108 years old)
NID IDMI00169

Safety Information

High Hazard

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?

Emergency Action Plan: Yes
Last Inspection: September 14, 2022
State Regulated: No

Ownership

Consumers Energy Company

Public Utility

Nearby Dams

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the hazard classification of Foote?

Foote 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 Foote?

Foote is owned by Consumers Energy Company (Public Utility). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.

When was Foote built?

Foote was completed in 1918, making it 108 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 Foote?

Foote 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 Foote?

Foote has a dam height of 47 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 Foote last inspected?

Foote was last inspected on September 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.