Upper Constantine Dam

Fawn River· St. Joseph, Michigan· Built 1903· Gravity· 13 ft tall
Significant Hazard Recreation Private

Key Takeaway

Upper Constantine Dam is classified as significant hazard in Michigan. It was completed in 1903 and is 123 years old. Its primary use is recreation. Significant hazard means failure could cause economic or environmental damage. Learn more.

Physical Details

Dam Height 13 ft (taller than 39.7% in MI)
Dam Length300 ft
Dam TypeGravity
Max Storage1.0K acre-ft
Normal Storage404 acre-ft
Surface Area45 acres
Drainage Area247 sq mi
Max Discharge2,400 cfs
Year Completed1903 (123 years old)
NID IDMI00554

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: November 7, 2018
State Regulated: Yes
Regulatory Agency: MICHIGAN DEGLE

Ownership

Ox Engineered Products

Private

Nearby Dams

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the hazard classification of Upper Constantine Dam?

Upper Constantine 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 Upper Constantine Dam?

Upper Constantine Dam is owned by Ox Engineered Products (Private). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.

When was Upper Constantine Dam built?

Upper Constantine Dam was completed in 1903, making it 123 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 Upper Constantine Dam?

Upper Constantine 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 Upper Constantine Dam?

Upper Constantine 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 Upper Constantine Dam last inspected?

Upper Constantine Dam was last inspected on November 7, 2018. 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.