Fords Dam
Key Takeaway
Fords Dam is classified as low hazard in Michigan. It was completed in 1930 and is 96 years old. Its primary use is recreation.
Physical Details
| Dam Height | 31 ft (taller than 90.6% in MI) |
| Dam Length | 585 ft |
| Dam Type | Buttress |
| Max Storage | 3.0K acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 1.0K acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 93 acres |
| Drainage Area | 486 sq mi |
| Max Discharge | 15,175 cfs |
| Year Completed | 1930 (96 years old) |
| NID ID | MI00363 |
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
Ralph Scofield
Private
Nearby Dams
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Fords Dam?
Fords 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 Fords Dam?
Fords Dam is owned by Ralph Scofield (Private). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Fords Dam built?
Fords Dam was completed in 1930, making it 96 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 Fords Dam?
Fords 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 Fords Dam?
Fords Dam has a dam height of 31 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 Fords Dam last inspected?
Fords Dam was last inspected on October 14, 2020. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.