Perrin Dam No 2 Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Perrin Dam No 2 is a historic masonry dam located on the Kalamazoo River in Marshall, Michigan.


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Summary

Built in 1893, this dam serves a primary purpose of hydroelectric power generation. With a height of 12 feet and a length of 90 feet, it has a storage capacity of 1775 acre-feet and a maximum discharge capacity of 4200 cubic feet per second. The dam is owned and regulated by the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission and is inspected regularly to ensure its safety and functionality.

The dam's location in Calhoun County, Michigan, makes it a crucial component of the local water resource management system. Its high hazard potential underscores the importance of proper maintenance and monitoring. Despite not being state-regulated, Perrin Dam No 2 plays a significant role in the region's water infrastructure, providing clean energy and flood control benefits to the community.

As a focal point for hydroelectric power production, Perrin Dam No 2 stands as a testament to the intersection of water resource management and renewable energy generation. Its historical significance and ongoing operational relevance highlight the importance of sustainable hydroelectric infrastructure in ensuring a reliable and climate-resilient water supply for future generations.

Year Completed

1893

Dam Length

90

Dam Height

12

River Or Stream

Kalamazoo River

Primary Dam Type

Masonry

Surface Area

130

Drainage Area

352

Nid Storage

1775

Hazard Potential

High

Nid Height

12
       
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.