Shelldrake Dam
Key Takeaway
Shelldrake Dam is classified as low hazard in Michigan. It was completed in 1964 and is 62 years old. Its primary use is recreation.
Physical Details
| Dam Height | 13 ft (taller than 39.7% in MI) |
| Dam Length | 800 ft |
| Dam Type | Earth |
| Max Storage | 1.2K acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 448 acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 160 acres |
| Drainage Area | 14 sq mi |
| Max Discharge | 1,290 cfs |
| Year Completed | 1964 (62 years old) |
| NID ID | MI00252 |
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
MDNR Fisheries
State Government
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Shelldrake Dam?
Shelldrake 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 Shelldrake Dam?
Shelldrake Dam is owned by MDNR Fisheries (State Government). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Shelldrake Dam built?
Shelldrake Dam was completed in 1964, making it 62 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 Shelldrake Dam?
Shelldrake 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 Shelldrake Dam?
Shelldrake Dam has a dam height of 13 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 Shelldrake Dam last inspected?
Shelldrake Dam was last inspected on August 9, 2018. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.