Upper Hiawatha Dam
Key Takeaway
Upper Hiawatha Dam is classified as significant hazard in Michigan. It was completed in 1947 and is 79 years old. Its primary use is recreation. Significant hazard means failure could cause economic or environmental damage. Learn more.
Physical Details
| Dam Height | 9 ft (taller than 14.1% in MI) |
| Dam Length | 226 ft |
| Dam Type | Earth |
| Max Storage | 72 acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 50 acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 20 acres |
| Drainage Area | 11 sq mi |
| Year Completed | 1947 (79 years old) |
| NID ID | MI00134 |
Safety Information
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?
Ownership
Twin Dams Owners Association
Private
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What is the hazard classification of Upper Hiawatha Dam?
Upper Hiawatha 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 Hiawatha Dam?
Upper Hiawatha Dam is owned by Twin Dams Owners Association (Private). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Upper Hiawatha Dam built?
Upper Hiawatha Dam was completed in 1947, making it 79 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 Hiawatha Dam?
Upper Hiawatha 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 Hiawatha Dam?
Upper Hiawatha Dam has a dam height of 9 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 Hiawatha Dam last inspected?
Upper Hiawatha Dam was last inspected on July 15, 2018. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.