Phoenix Dam
Key Takeaway
Phoenix Dam is classified as high hazard in Michigan. It was completed in 1920 and is 106 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 | 24 ft (taller than 81.6% in MI) |
| Dam Length | 500 ft |
| Dam Type | Gravity |
| Max Storage | 450 acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 340 acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 35 acres |
| Drainage Area | 56 sq mi |
| Max Discharge | 2,860 cfs |
| Year Completed | 1920 (106 years old) |
| NID ID | MI00397 |
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 County Dpt of Public Services
Local Government
Nearby Dams
Wilcox Dam
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Low Hazard 16 ftNewburgh Dam
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High Hazard 29 ftMaybury Fish Pond Dam
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Significant Hazard 19 ftMeadowbrook Lake Dam
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Low Hazard 11 ftThornton District Detention Basin
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Low Hazard 11 ftLeavenworth Detention Pond Dam
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Low Hazard 9 ftFrequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Phoenix Dam?
Phoenix 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 Phoenix Dam?
Phoenix Dam is owned by Wayne County Dpt of Public Services (Local Government). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Phoenix Dam built?
Phoenix Dam 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 Phoenix Dam?
Phoenix 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 Phoenix Dam?
Phoenix Dam has a dam height of 24 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 Phoenix Dam last inspected?
Phoenix Dam was last inspected on January 18, 2018. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.