Little Quinnesec Falls Dam
Key Takeaway
Little Quinnesec Falls Dam is classified as high hazard in Michigan. It was completed in 1916 and is 110 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 | 65 ft (taller than 98.1% in MI) |
| Dam Type | Gravity |
| Normal Storage | 1.4K acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 440 acres |
| Drainage Area | 2,470 sq mi |
| Max Discharge | 9,000 cfs |
| Year Completed | 1916 (110 years old) |
| NID ID | MI00826 |
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
Consolidated Water Company
Private
Nearby Dams
Little Quinnesec Falls
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High Hazard 22 ftBig Quinnesec Falls
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High Hazard 77 ftBig Quinnesec Falls
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Low Hazard 26 ftCarollo Dam
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Low Hazard 8 ftSturgeon Falls
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Low Hazard 38 ftSturgeon Falls
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Significant Hazard 37 ftTwin Falls
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High Hazard 56 ftFrequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Little Quinnesec Falls Dam?
Little Quinnesec Falls 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 Little Quinnesec Falls Dam?
Little Quinnesec Falls Dam is owned by Consolidated Water Company (Private). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Little Quinnesec Falls Dam built?
Little Quinnesec Falls Dam was completed in 1916, making it 110 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 Little Quinnesec Falls Dam?
Little Quinnesec Falls Dam 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 Little Quinnesec Falls Dam?
Little Quinnesec Falls Dam has a dam height of 65 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 Little Quinnesec Falls Dam last inspected?
Little Quinnesec Falls Dam was last inspected on July 31, 1990. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.