Frayer Dam

Trib to Sugar River· Gladwin, Michigan· Built 1972· Earth· 26 ft tall

Key Takeaway

Frayer Dam is classified as low hazard in Michigan. It was completed in 1972 and is 54 years old. Its primary use is fire protection.

Physical Details

Dam Height 26 ft (taller than 85.3% in MI)
Dam Length300 ft
Dam TypeEarth
Max Storage90 acre-ft
Normal Storage88 acre-ft
Surface Area4 acres
Drainage Area0 sq mi
Max Discharge250 cfs
Year Completed1972 (54 years old)
NID IDMI00785

Safety Information

Low Hazard

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?

Emergency Action Plan: No
Last Inspection: January 1, 1901
State Regulated: No

Ownership

Douglas Benedick

Private

Nearby Dams

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the hazard classification of Frayer Dam?

Frayer 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 Frayer Dam?

Frayer Dam is owned by Douglas Benedick (Private). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.

When was Frayer Dam built?

Frayer Dam was completed in 1972, making it 54 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 Frayer Dam?

Frayer Dam serves the following purposes: Fire Protection, Stock, Or Small Fish Pond. Many dams in the U.S. are multi-purpose, supporting flood control, water supply, recreation, and other uses.

How tall is Frayer Dam?

Frayer 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 Frayer Dam last inspected?

Frayer Dam was last inspected on January 1, 1901. 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.