Secord Dam
Key Takeaway
Secord Dam is classified as high hazard in Michigan. It was completed in 1925 and is 101 years old. Its primary use is recreation. High hazard means loss of life is likely if the dam fails — it does not indicate the dam's current condition. Learn more.
Physical Details
| Dam Height | 57 ft (taller than 97.4% in MI) |
| Dam Length | 1,100 ft |
| Dam Type | Earth |
| Max Storage | 51.0K acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 48.0K acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 894 acres |
| Drainage Area | 210 sq mi |
| Max Discharge | 7,473 cfs |
| Year Completed | 1925 (101 years old) |
| NID ID | MI00547 |
Safety Information
Loss of human life is likely if the dam fails.
Hazard potential describes downstream consequences of failure, not the dam's current condition. What does this mean?
Ownership
Gladwin County
Local Government
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What is the hazard classification of Secord Dam?
Secord Dam is classified as High Hazard. Loss of human life is likely if the dam fails. This classification refers to the potential downstream consequences of a failure, not the dam's current structural condition.
Who owns and operates Secord Dam?
Secord Dam is owned by Gladwin County (Local Government). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Secord Dam built?
Secord Dam was completed in 1925, making it 101 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 Secord Dam?
Secord 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 Secord Dam?
Secord Dam has a dam height of 57 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 Secord Dam last inspected?
Secord Dam was last inspected on November 12, 2021. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.