French Hydro Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

French Hydro, located in Niles, Michigan, is a privately owned hydroelectric facility on the St.


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Summary

Joseph River. Completed in 1914, this Arch-type dam stands at 13 feet tall and stretches 321 feet in length, with a storage capacity of 1,600 acre-feet. The dam serves a primary purpose of hydroelectric power generation, contributing to the renewable energy sources in the region.

Managed by the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission, French Hydro is regulated, inspected, and enforced to ensure operational safety and environmental compliance. With a controlled spillway and a hazard potential rated as low, the facility has a very high risk assessment ranking, emphasizing the importance of risk management measures. The dam's normal storage capacity is 610 acre-feet, serving as a vital resource for water supply and flood control in the area.

Despite its age, French Hydro continues to play a significant role in water resource management and climate resilience efforts. With its strategic location and operational efficiency, this hydroelectric facility stands as a testament to sustainable energy practices and responsible water usage in the region.

Year Completed

1914

Dam Length

321

Dam Height

13

River Or Stream

St Joseph River

Primary Dam Type

Arch

Surface Area

110

Drainage Area

3666

Nid Storage

1600

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

13
       
Seasonal Comparison

Weather Forecast

Dam Data Reference

Condition Assessment

Satisfactory
No existing or potential dam safety deficiencies are recognized. Acceptable performance is expected under all loading conditions (static, hydrologic, seismic) in accordance with the minimum applicable state or federal regulatory criteria or tolerable risk guidelines.
Fair
No existing dam safety deficiencies are recognized for normal operating conditions. Rare or extreme hydrologic and/or seismic events may result in a dam safety deficiency. Risk may be in the range to take further action. Note: Rare or extreme event is defined by the regulatory agency based on their minimum
Poor A dam safety deficiency is recognized for normal operating conditions which may realistically occur. Remedial action is necessary. POOR may also be used when uncertainties exist as to critical analysis parameters which identify a potential dam safety deficiency. Investigations and studies are necessary.
Unsatisfactory
A dam safety deficiency is recognized that requires immediate or emergency remedial action for problem resolution.
Not Rated
The dam has not been inspected, is not under state or federal jurisdiction, or has been inspected but, for whatever reason, has not been rated.
Not Available
Dams for which the condition assessment is restricted to approved government users.

Hazard Potential Classification

High
Dams assigned the high hazard potential classification are those where failure or mis-operation will probably cause loss of human life.
Significant
Dams assigned the significant hazard potential classification are those dams where failure or mis-operation results in no probable loss of human life but can cause economic loss, environment damage, disruption of lifeline facilities, or impact other concerns. Significant hazard potential classification dams are often located in predominantly rural or agricultural areas but could be in areas with population and significant infrastructure.
Low
Dams assigned the low hazard potential classification are those where failure or mis-operation results in no probable loss of human life and low economic and/or environmental losses. Losses are principally limited to the owner's property.
Undetermined
Dams for which a downstream hazard potential has not been designated or is not provided.
Not Available
Dams for which the downstream hazard potential is restricted to approved government users.