Upper Mill Dam
Key Takeaway
Upper Mill Dam is classified as high hazard in Michigan. It was completed in 1970 and is 56 years old. Its primary use is recreation. 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 | 14 ft (taller than 44.8% in MI) |
| Dam Length | 400 ft |
| Dam Type | Earth |
| Max Storage | 1.3K acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 700 acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 125 acres |
| Drainage Area | 52 sq mi |
| Max Discharge | 1,130 cfs |
| Year Completed | 1970 (56 years old) |
| NID ID | MI00035 |
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
Millpond Improvement Association
Private
Nearby Dams
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Upper Mill Dam?
Upper Mill 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 Upper Mill Dam?
Upper Mill Dam is owned by Millpond Improvement Association (Private). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Upper Mill Dam built?
Upper Mill Dam was completed in 1970, making it 56 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 Mill Dam?
Upper Mill 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 Mill Dam?
Upper Mill Dam has a dam height of 14 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 Mill Dam last inspected?
Upper Mill Dam was last inspected on September 3, 2015. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.