Ford Estate Dam
Key Takeaway
Ford Estate Dam is classified as low hazard in Michigan. It was completed in 1909 and is 117 years old. Its primary use is recreation.
Physical Details
| Dam Height | 12 ft (taller than 32.7% in MI) |
| Dam Length | 97 ft |
| Dam Type | Rockfill |
| Max Storage | 75 acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 60 acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 13 acres |
| Drainage Area | 304 sq mi |
| Max Discharge | 1,880 cfs |
| Year Completed | 1909 (117 years old) |
| NID ID | MI00394 |
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
Henry Ford Estate, Inc.
Private
Nearby Dams
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Ford Estate Dam?
Ford Estate 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 Ford Estate Dam?
Ford Estate Dam is owned by Henry Ford Estate, Inc. (Private). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Ford Estate Dam built?
Ford Estate Dam was completed in 1909, making it 117 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 Estate Dam?
Ford Estate 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 Estate Dam?
Ford Estate Dam has a dam height of 12 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 Estate Dam last inspected?
Ford Estate Dam was last inspected on May 11, 2016. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.