Hardwood Dam

East Branch Sturgeon River· Dickinson, Michigan· Built 1977· Earth· 37 ft tall
Significant Hazard Flood Risk Reduction Local Government

Key Takeaway

Hardwood Dam is classified as significant hazard in Michigan. It was completed in 1977 and is 49 years old. Its primary use is flood risk reduction. Significant hazard means failure could cause economic or environmental damage. Learn more.

Physical Details

Dam Height 37 ft (taller than 93.7% in MI)
Dam Length700 ft
Dam TypeEarth
Max Storage19.5K acre-ft
Normal Storage7.2K acre-ft
Surface Area283 acres
Drainage Area90 sq mi
Max Discharge7,321 cfs
Year Completed1977 (49 years old)
NID IDMI00716

Safety Information

Significant Hazard

No probable loss of human life, but can cause economic loss, environmental damage, or disruption of lifeline facilities.

Hazard potential describes downstream consequences of failure, not the dam's current condition. What does this mean?

Emergency Action Plan: Yes
Last Inspection: October 11, 2017
State Regulated: Yes
Regulatory Agency: MICHIGAN DEGLE

Ownership

Dickinson Co Board of Commissioners

Local Government

Nearby Dams

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the hazard classification of Hardwood Dam?

Hardwood Dam is classified as Significant Hazard. No probable loss of human life, but can cause economic loss, environmental damage, or disruption of lifeline facilities. This classification refers to the potential downstream consequences of a failure, not the dam's current structural condition.

Who owns and operates Hardwood Dam?

Hardwood Dam is owned by Dickinson Co Board of Commissioners (Local Government). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.

When was Hardwood Dam built?

Hardwood Dam was completed in 1977, making it 49 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 Hardwood Dam?

Hardwood Dam serves the following purposes: Flood Risk Reduction. Many dams in the U.S. are multi-purpose, supporting flood control, water supply, recreation, and other uses.

How tall is Hardwood Dam?

Hardwood Dam has a dam height of 37 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 Hardwood Dam last inspected?

Hardwood Dam was last inspected on October 11, 2017. 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.