Plainwell Dam Number 2
Key Takeaway
Plainwell Dam Number 2 is classified as low hazard in Michigan. It was completed in 1856 and is 170 years old. Its primary use is recreation.
Physical Details
| Dam Height | 14 ft (taller than 44.8% in MI) |
| Dam Length | 2,520 ft |
| Dam Type | Earth |
| Max Storage | 250 acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 60 acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 0 acres |
| Drainage Area | 1,299 sq mi |
| Max Discharge | 5,613 cfs |
| Year Completed | 1856 (170 years old) |
| NID ID | MI00490 |
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
Plainwell Paper Company
Private
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Low Hazard 17 ftOtsego Dam
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Significant Hazard 13 ftFrequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Plainwell Dam Number 2?
Plainwell Dam Number 2 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 Number 2?
Plainwell Dam Number 2 is owned by Plainwell Paper Company (Private). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Plainwell Dam Number 2 built?
Plainwell Dam Number 2 was completed in 1856, making it 170 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 Number 2?
Plainwell Dam Number 2 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 Number 2?
Plainwell Dam Number 2 has a dam height of 14 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 Number 2 last inspected?
Plainwell Dam Number 2 was last inspected on May 23, 1979. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.