Big Quinnesec Falls, located in Michigan along the Menominee River, is a captivating hydroelectric structure with a rich history dating back to its completion in 1949.
Wind
Humidity
Designed by Meade & Hunt, this concrete dam stands at an impressive height of 77 feet, with a hydraulic height of 92 feet and a structural height of 32 feet. Boasting a multi-arch core design and supported by rock and soil foundations, the dam serves a primary purpose of hydroelectric power generation, while also offering recreational opportunities to visitors.
With a storage capacity of 3,790 acre-feet and a drainage area of 2,475 square miles, Big Quinnesec Falls is a significant structure in the region, capable of discharging up to 39,347 cubic feet per second through its controlled spillway. The dam's hazard potential is deemed high, reflecting the importance of regular inspections and maintenance. Despite its age, the condition assessment of the dam is currently not available, highlighting the need for continued monitoring and risk assessment to ensure the safety and reliability of this key water resource infrastructure.
Managed by the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission, Big Quinnesec Falls represents a critical piece of the region's hydroelectric infrastructure, contributing to both energy production and water management efforts. As a popular destination for both hydro enthusiasts and outdoor recreation enthusiasts, this impressive dam showcases the intersection of engineering ingenuity, environmental stewardship, and sustainable resource utilization along the Menominee River.
Year Completed |
1949 |
Dam Length |
530 |
Dam Height |
77 |
River Or Stream |
Menominee River |
Primary Dam Type |
Concrete |
Surface Area |
272 |
Hydraulic Height |
92 |
Drainage Area |
2475 |
Nid Storage |
3790 |
Structural Height |
32 |
Outlet Gates |
Slide (sluice gate) - 2, Tainter (radial) - 7 |
Hazard Potential |
High |
Foundations |
Rock, Soil |
Nid Height |
92 |
Menominee River At Niagara
|
1260cfs |
Menominee River At Twin Falls Near Iron Mt
|
3420cfs |
Menominee River Near Vulcan
|
1690cfs |
Pine River Below Pine R Powerplant Nr Florence
|
273cfs |
Menominee River Near Florence
|
950cfs |
Brule River Near Commonwealth
|
428cfs |
| Location | Reservations | Toilets |
|---|---|---|
River Bends Campground
|
||
Summer Breeze Campground
|
||
New Prospect - Kettle Moraine State Forest
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