Republic Dam

Michigamme River· Marquette, Michigan· Built 1913· Gravity· 22 ft tall
Significant Hazard Recreation Private

Key Takeaway

Republic Dam is classified as significant hazard in Michigan. It was completed in 1913 and is 113 years old. Its primary use is recreation. Significant hazard means failure could cause economic or environmental damage. Learn more.

Physical Details

Dam Height 22 ft (taller than 77.5% in MI)
Dam Length400 ft
Dam TypeGravity
Max Storage1.7K acre-ft
Normal Storage850 acre-ft
Surface Area145 acres
Drainage Area240 sq mi
Max Discharge3,700 cfs
Year Completed1913 (113 years old)
NID IDMI00579

Safety Information

Significant Hazard

No probable loss of human life, but can cause economic loss, environmental damage, or disruption of lifeline facilities.

Hazard potential describes downstream consequences of failure, not the dam's current condition. What does this mean?

Emergency Action Plan: Yes
Last Inspection: September 19, 2019
State Regulated: Yes
Regulatory Agency: MICHIGAN DEGLE

Ownership

Republic Mountain Lake LLC

Private

Nearby Dams

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the hazard classification of Republic Dam?

Republic Dam is classified as Significant Hazard. No probable loss of human life, but can cause economic loss, environmental damage, or disruption of lifeline facilities. This classification refers to the potential downstream consequences of a failure, not the dam's current structural condition.

Who owns and operates Republic Dam?

Republic Dam is owned by Republic Mountain Lake LLC (Private). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.

When was Republic Dam built?

Republic Dam was completed in 1913, making it 113 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 Republic Dam?

Republic 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 Republic Dam?

Republic Dam has a dam height of 22 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 Republic Dam last inspected?

Republic Dam was last inspected on September 19, 2019. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.

Data from the National Inventory of Dams (NID) maintained by the US Army Corps of Engineers. Dam conditions may have changed since the last update. This site is not affiliated with USACE. Do not use for emergency planning — contact your local dam safety program.