Peavy Falls
Key Takeaway
Peavy Falls is classified as high hazard in Michigan. It was completed in 1943 and is 83 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 | 78 ft (taller than 98.8% in MI) |
| Dam Length | 770 ft |
| Dam Type | Concrete |
| Max Storage | 34.3K acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 34.3K acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 3,160 acres |
| Drainage Area | 715 sq mi |
| Max Discharge | 15,500 cfs |
| Year Completed | 1943 (83 years old) |
| NID ID | MI00191 |
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
Wisconsin Electric Power Company
Public Utility
Nearby Dams
Brule Remote Dike
Iron, WI
High Hazard 10 ftMichigamme Falls
Iron, MI
High Hazard 72 ftLower Paint
Iron, MI
Low Hazard 23 ftVerley, Ray
Florence, WI
Low Hazard 32 ftHemlock Falls
Iron, MI
Low Hazard 34 ftCrystal Falls
Iron, MI
Low Hazard 24 ftKimberly-Clark Dam
Dickinson, MI
Low Hazard 13 ftTwin Falls
Dickinson, MI
High Hazard 35 ftFrequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Peavy Falls?
Peavy Falls 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 Peavy Falls?
Peavy Falls is owned by Wisconsin Electric Power Company (Public Utility). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Peavy Falls built?
Peavy Falls was completed in 1943, making it 83 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 Peavy Falls?
Peavy Falls 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 Peavy Falls?
Peavy Falls has a dam height of 78 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 Peavy Falls last inspected?
Peavy Falls was last inspected on June 16, 2022. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.