Root Dam

Sand Creek· Ottawa, Michigan· Built 1860· Earth· 14 ft tall
Low Hazard Recreation Private

Key Takeaway

Root Dam is classified as low hazard in Michigan. It was completed in 1860 and is 166 years old. Its primary use is recreation.

Physical Details

Dam Height 14 ft (taller than 44.8% in MI)
Dam Length500 ft
Dam TypeEarth
Max Storage60 acre-ft
Normal Storage0 acre-ft
Surface Area0 acres
Drainage Area49 sq mi
Year Completed1860 (166 years old)
NID IDMI00341

Safety Information

Low Hazard

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?

Emergency Action Plan: No
Last Inspection: November 14, 1979
State Regulated: No

Ownership

J. W. Davis

Private

Nearby Dams

Rushmore Lake Level Control Structure

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Kenowa Lake Level Control Structure

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North Branch Rush Creek Retention Basin Dam

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Rush Creek Detention Basin Dam #2

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Low Hazard 19 ft

Grand Rapids West Side Dam

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High Hazard 15 ft

Beren's Dam

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Significant Hazard 32 ft

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the hazard classification of Root Dam?

Root 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 Root Dam?

Root Dam is owned by J. W. Davis (Private). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.

When was Root Dam built?

Root Dam was completed in 1860, making it 166 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 Root Dam?

Root 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 Root Dam?

Root Dam 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 Root Dam last inspected?

Root Dam was last inspected on November 14, 1979. 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.