Hodenpyl

Manistee River· Wexford, Michigan· Built 1925· Gravity· 90 ft tall
High Hazard Hydroelectric Public Utility

Key Takeaway

Hodenpyl is classified as high hazard in Michigan. It was completed in 1925 and is 101 years old. Its primary use is hydroelectric. 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 90 ft (taller than 99.1% in MI)
Dam Length4,270 ft
Dam TypeGravity
Normal Storage39.7K acre-ft
Surface Area1,798 acres
Drainage Area1,018 sq mi
Max Discharge10,512 cfs
Year Completed1925 (101 years old)
NID IDMI00174

Safety Information

High Hazard

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?

Emergency Action Plan: Yes
Last Inspection: July 13, 2022
State Regulated: No

Ownership

Consumers Energy Company

Public Utility

Nearby Dams

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the hazard classification of Hodenpyl?

Hodenpyl 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 Hodenpyl?

Hodenpyl is owned by Consumers Energy Company (Public Utility). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.

When was Hodenpyl built?

Hodenpyl was completed in 1925, making it 101 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 Hodenpyl?

Hodenpyl 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 Hodenpyl?

Hodenpyl has a dam height of 90 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 Hodenpyl last inspected?

Hodenpyl was last inspected on July 13, 2022. 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.