Superior Dam
Key Takeaway
Superior Dam is classified as high hazard in Michigan. It was completed in 1919 and is 107 years old. Its primary use is hydroelectric. 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 | 25 ft (taller than 83.2% in MI) |
| Dam Length | 496 ft |
| Dam Type | Earth |
| Max Storage | 2.8K acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 700 acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 103 acres |
| Drainage Area | 801 sq mi |
| Max Discharge | 17,200 cfs |
| Year Completed | 1919 (107 years old) |
| NID ID | MI00558 |
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
Ann Arbor, City of
Local Government
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What is the hazard classification of Superior Dam?
Superior 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 Superior Dam?
Superior Dam is owned by Ann Arbor, City of (Local Government). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Superior Dam built?
Superior Dam was completed in 1919, making it 107 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 Superior Dam?
Superior Dam serves the following purposes: Hydroelectric. Many dams in the U.S. are multi-purpose, supporting flood control, water supply, recreation, and other uses.
How tall is Superior Dam?
Superior Dam has a dam height of 25 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 Superior Dam last inspected?
Superior Dam was last inspected on July 14, 2022. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.