Putney Dam
Key Takeaway
Putney Dam is classified as low hazard in Michigan. It was completed in 1848 and is 178 years old. Its primary use is recreation.
Physical Details
| Dam Height | 9 ft (taller than 14.1% in MI) |
| Dam Length | 200 ft |
| Dam Type | Earth |
| Max Storage | 80 acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 55 acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 6 acres |
| Drainage Area | 4 sq mi |
| Max Discharge | 40 cfs |
| Year Completed | 1848 (178 years old) |
| NID ID | MI00722 |
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
Onalee Riess
Private
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Significant Hazard 31 ftFrequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Putney Dam?
Putney Dam 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 Putney Dam?
Putney Dam is owned by Onalee Riess (Private). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Putney Dam built?
Putney Dam was completed in 1848, making it 178 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 Putney Dam?
Putney 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 Putney Dam?
Putney Dam has a dam height of 9 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 Putney Dam last inspected?
Putney Dam was last inspected on September 17, 2004. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.