Mottville
Key Takeaway
Mottville is classified as high hazard in Michigan. It was completed in 1920 and is 106 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 | 23 ft (taller than 79.7% in MI) |
| Dam Length | 846 ft |
| Dam Type | Gravity |
| Max Storage | 4.3K acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 4.3K acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 378 acres |
| Drainage Area | 1,866 sq mi |
| Max Discharge | 20,610 cfs |
| Year Completed | 1920 (106 years old) |
| NID ID | MI00187 |
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
Indiana & Michigan Power Company
Public Utility
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Low Hazard 9 ftCentenial Mill Dam
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Low Hazard 17 ftFawn River Power Company Dam
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Low Hazard 22 ftConstantine
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High Hazard 11 ftUpper Constantine Dam
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Significant Hazard 13 ftCorey Lake Level Overflow Structure
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Low Hazard 6 ftFrequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Mottville?
Mottville 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 Mottville?
Mottville is owned by Indiana & Michigan Power Company (Public Utility). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Mottville built?
Mottville was completed in 1920, making it 106 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 Mottville?
Mottville serves the following purposes: Hydroelectric, Recreation. Many dams in the U.S. are multi-purpose, supporting flood control, water supply, recreation, and other uses.
How tall is Mottville?
Mottville has a dam height of 23 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 Mottville last inspected?
Mottville was last inspected on May 17, 2022. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.