Lower Menominee River Dam
Key Takeaway
Lower Menominee River Dam is classified as high hazard in Michigan. It was completed in 1924 and is 102 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 | 29 ft (taller than 88.4% in MI) |
| Dam Length | 656 ft |
| Dam Type | Gravity |
| Max Storage | 1.0K acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 680 acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 150 acres |
| Drainage Area | 4,051 sq mi |
| Max Discharge | 46,600 cfs |
| Year Completed | 1924 (102 years old) |
| NID ID | MI00532 |
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
Scott Paper Company
Private
Nearby Dams
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Lower Menominee River Dam?
Lower Menominee River 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 Lower Menominee River Dam?
Lower Menominee River Dam is owned by Scott Paper Company (Private). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Lower Menominee River Dam built?
Lower Menominee River Dam was completed in 1924, making it 102 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 Lower Menominee River Dam?
Lower Menominee River 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 Lower Menominee River Dam?
Lower Menominee River Dam has a dam height of 29 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 Lower Menominee River Dam last inspected?
Lower Menominee River Dam was last inspected on September 4, 1977. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.