Wilcox Dam
Key Takeaway
Wilcox Dam is classified as high hazard in Michigan. It was completed in 1933 and is 93 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 | 27 ft (taller than 86.3% in MI) |
| Dam Length | 950 ft |
| Dam Type | Gravity |
| Max Storage | 120 acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 115 acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 12 acres |
| Drainage Area | 58 sq mi |
| Max Discharge | 2,790 cfs |
| Year Completed | 1933 (93 years old) |
| NID ID | MI00398 |
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
Wayne County Dpt of Public Services
Local Government
Nearby Dams
Phoenix Dam
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High Hazard 24 ftWaterford Dam
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High Hazard 21 ftNewburgh Dam
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High Hazard 29 ftSilver Spring Lake Dam
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Low Hazard 16 ftMeadowbrook Lake Dam
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Low Hazard 11 ftMaybury Fish Pond Dam
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Significant Hazard 19 ftThornton District Detention Basin
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Low Hazard 11 ftNankin Mill Dam
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High Hazard 17 ftFrequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Wilcox Dam?
Wilcox 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 Wilcox Dam?
Wilcox Dam is owned by Wayne County Dpt of Public Services (Local Government). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Wilcox Dam built?
Wilcox Dam was completed in 1933, making it 93 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 Wilcox Dam?
Wilcox 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 Wilcox Dam?
Wilcox Dam has a dam height of 27 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 Wilcox Dam last inspected?
Wilcox Dam was last inspected on January 18, 2018. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.