Ford Dam
Key Takeaway
Ford Dam is classified as high hazard in Michigan. It was completed in 1936 and is 90 years old. Its primary use is recreation. 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 | 26 ft (taller than 85.3% in MI) |
| Dam Length | 500 ft |
| Dam Type | Earth |
| Max Storage | 1.5K acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 340 acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 19 acres |
| Drainage Area | 2 sq mi |
| Year Completed | 1936 (90 years old) |
| NID ID | MI00129 |
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
Michigan Technological University
Private
Nearby Dams
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Ford Dam?
Ford Dam 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 Ford Dam?
Ford Dam is owned by Michigan Technological University (Private). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Ford Dam built?
Ford Dam was completed in 1936, making it 90 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 Ford Dam?
Ford 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 Ford Dam?
Ford Dam has a dam height of 26 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 Ford Dam last inspected?
Ford Dam was last inspected on November 1, 2018. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.