Tecumseh Dam

River Raisin· Lenawee, Michigan· Built 1907· Earth· 20 ft tall
Significant Hazard Recreation Private

Key Takeaway

Tecumseh Dam is classified as significant hazard in Michigan. It was completed in 1907 and is 119 years old. Its primary use is recreation. Significant hazard means failure could cause economic or environmental damage. Learn more.

Physical Details

Dam Height 20 ft (taller than 70.3% in MI)
Dam Length210 ft
Dam TypeEarth
Max Storage865 acre-ft
Normal Storage265 acre-ft
Surface Area51 acres
Drainage Area222 sq mi
Max Discharge5,505 cfs
Year Completed1907 (119 years old)
NID IDMI00593

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: February 25, 2020
State Regulated: Yes
Regulatory Agency: MICHIGAN DEGLE

Ownership

Lenawee County Drain Commission

Private

Nearby Dams

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the hazard classification of Tecumseh Dam?

Tecumseh 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 Tecumseh Dam?

Tecumseh Dam is owned by Lenawee County Drain Commission (Private). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.

When was Tecumseh Dam built?

Tecumseh Dam was completed in 1907, making it 119 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 Tecumseh Dam?

Tecumseh 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 Tecumseh Dam?

Tecumseh Dam has a dam height of 20 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 Tecumseh Dam last inspected?

Tecumseh Dam was last inspected on February 25, 2020. 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.