Plainwell Dam #1
Key Takeaway
Plainwell Dam #1 is classified as low hazard in Michigan. It was completed in 1902 and is 124 years old. Its primary use is recreation.
Physical Details
| Dam Height | 21 ft (taller than 74.1% in MI) |
| Dam Length | 1,185 ft |
| Dam Type | Gravity |
| Max Storage | 1.5K acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 490 acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 56 acres |
| Drainage Area | 1,299 sq mi |
| Max Discharge | 5,800 cfs |
| Year Completed | 1902 (124 years old) |
| NID ID | MI00491 |
Safety Information
No probable loss of human life and low economic/environmental losses expected.
Hazard potential describes downstream consequences of failure, not the dam's current condition. What does this mean?
Ownership
MDNR Wildlife
State Government
Nearby Dams
Menasha Dam
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High Hazard 22 ftPlainwell Dam Number 2
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High Hazard 21 ftLake Doster Dam
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Low Hazard 16 ftFrequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Plainwell Dam #1?
Plainwell Dam #1 is classified as Low Hazard. No probable loss of human life and low economic/environmental losses expected. This classification refers to the potential downstream consequences of a failure, not the dam's current structural condition.
Who owns and operates Plainwell Dam #1?
Plainwell Dam #1 is owned by MDNR Wildlife (State Government). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Plainwell Dam #1 built?
Plainwell Dam #1 was completed in 1902, making it 124 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 Plainwell Dam #1?
Plainwell Dam #1 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 Plainwell Dam #1?
Plainwell Dam #1 has a dam height of 21 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 Plainwell Dam #1 last inspected?
Plainwell Dam #1 was last inspected on April 16, 2004. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.