Kearsley Dam
Key Takeaway
Kearsley Dam is classified as significant hazard in Michigan. It was completed in 1929 and is 97 years old. Its primary use is recreation. Significant hazard means failure could cause economic or environmental damage. Learn more.
Physical Details
| Dam Height | 33 ft (taller than 91.8% in MI) |
| Dam Length | 450 ft |
| Dam Type | Gravity |
| Max Storage | 3.3K acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 2.0K acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 250 acres |
| Drainage Area | 115 sq mi |
| Max Discharge | 6,235 cfs |
| Year Completed | 1929 (97 years old) |
| NID ID | MI00061 |
Safety Information
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?
Ownership
City of Flint
Local Government
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Significant Hazard 22 ftFrequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Kearsley Dam?
Kearsley 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 Kearsley Dam?
Kearsley Dam is owned by City of Flint (Local Government). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Kearsley Dam built?
Kearsley Dam was completed in 1929, making it 97 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 Kearsley Dam?
Kearsley 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 Kearsley Dam?
Kearsley Dam has a dam height of 33 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 Kearsley Dam last inspected?
Kearsley Dam was last inspected on October 1, 2019. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.