Grand Rapids West Side Dam
Key Takeaway
Grand Rapids West Side Dam is classified as high hazard in Michigan. It was completed in 1917 and is 109 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 | 15 ft (taller than 50.6% in MI) |
| Dam Length | 520 ft |
| Dam Type | Gravity |
| Surface Area | 0 acres |
| Drainage Area | 4,883 sq mi |
| Max Discharge | 13,000 cfs |
| Year Completed | 1917 (109 years old) |
| NID ID | MI00508 |
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
City of Grand Rapids
Local Government
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Significant Hazard 29 ftFrequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Grand Rapids West Side Dam?
Grand Rapids West Side 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 Grand Rapids West Side Dam?
Grand Rapids West Side Dam is owned by City of Grand Rapids (Local Government). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Grand Rapids West Side Dam built?
Grand Rapids West Side Dam was completed in 1917, making it 109 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 Grand Rapids West Side Dam?
Grand Rapids West Side 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 Grand Rapids West Side Dam?
Grand Rapids West Side Dam has a dam height of 15 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 Grand Rapids West Side Dam last inspected?
Grand Rapids West Side Dam was last inspected on January 1, 1901. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.