Nankin Mill Dam
Key Takeaway
Nankin Mill Dam is classified as high hazard in Michigan. It was completed in 1921 and is 105 years old. Its primary use is recreation. 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 | 17 ft (taller than 61.1% in MI) |
| Dam Length | 600 ft |
| Dam Type | Gravity |
| Max Storage | 140 acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 120 acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 25 acres |
| Drainage Area | 63 sq mi |
| Max Discharge | 2,340 cfs |
| Year Completed | 1921 (105 years old) |
| NID ID | MI00365 |
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
Wayne Co Dept. of Public Services
Local Government
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Low Hazard 14 ftFrequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Nankin Mill Dam?
Nankin Mill 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 Nankin Mill Dam?
Nankin Mill Dam is owned by Wayne Co Dept. of Public Services (Local Government). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Nankin Mill Dam built?
Nankin Mill Dam was completed in 1921, making it 105 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 Nankin Mill Dam?
Nankin Mill 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 Nankin Mill Dam?
Nankin Mill Dam has a dam height of 17 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 Nankin Mill Dam last inspected?
Nankin Mill Dam was last inspected on January 18, 2018. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.