Rainy River Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

The Rainy River Dam in Michigan, located on the West Branch Upper Rainy River, serves as a key recreational site in the region.


°F

°F

mph

Wind

%

Humidity

Summary

Completed in 1960, this earth dam stands at a height of 11 feet and spans a length of 296 feet, with a capacity of 1755 acre-feet for storage. The dam is primarily used for recreational purposes, offering opportunities for boating, fishing, and other outdoor activities in the surrounding area.

Managed by the Michigan Department of Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy (DEGLE), the Rainy River Dam is inspected regularly to ensure its safety and functionality. The dam has a low hazard potential and is classified as having a satisfactory condition, with a moderate risk assessment rating. Despite its age, the dam continues to meet regulatory standards and is equipped with an uncontrolled spillway to manage excess water flow during periods of heavy rainfall.

Located in Montmorency County near Cheboygan, Michigan, the Rainy River Dam plays a vital role in water resource management and flood control in the region. With its scenic surroundings and recreational opportunities, the dam serves as a popular destination for water resource and climate enthusiasts seeking to explore the beauty of the Upper Rainy River watershed.

Year Completed

1960

Dam Length

296

Dam Height

11

River Or Stream

West Branch Upper Rainy River

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

270

Hydraulic Height

10

Drainage Area

11.9

Nid Storage

1755

Structural Height

11

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

11
       
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.