French Hydro
Key Takeaway
French Hydro is classified as low hazard in Michigan. It was completed in 1914 and is 112 years old. Its primary use is hydroelectric.
Physical Details
| Dam Height | 13 ft (taller than 39.7% in MI) |
| Dam Length | 321 ft |
| Dam Type | Arch |
| Max Storage | 1.6K acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 610 acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 110 acres |
| Drainage Area | 3,666 sq mi |
| Max Discharge | 22,000 cfs |
| Year Completed | 1914 (112 years old) |
| NID ID | MI00537 |
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
French Hydro LLC
Private
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What is the hazard classification of French Hydro?
French Hydro 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 French Hydro?
French Hydro is owned by French Hydro LLC (Private). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was French Hydro built?
French Hydro was completed in 1914, making it 112 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 French Hydro?
French Hydro 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 French Hydro?
French Hydro has a dam height of 13 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 French Hydro last inspected?
French Hydro was last inspected on June 5, 2018. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.