Morrow Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Morrow is a privately owned hydroelectric dam located on the Kalamazoo River in Comstock, Michigan.


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Summary

Built in 1941, this gravity dam stands at 26 feet tall and spans 3700 feet in length. With a storage capacity of 6000 acre-feet and a maximum discharge of 11200 cubic feet per second, Morrow plays a crucial role in harnessing the river's energy for power generation.

The dam is regulated by the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC) and has a controlled spillway with a width of 48 feet. Its hazard potential is classified as high, with a very high risk assessment score of 1. Despite its age, the condition assessment of the dam is not available, indicating potential maintenance needs or concerns. The emergency action plan (EAP) for Morrow was last revised in July 2020, but details on its compliance with guidelines and risk management measures are not provided.

Given its significant role in hydroelectric power generation and the potential risks associated with its high hazard potential, Morrow is a critical structure for water resource and climate enthusiasts to monitor. The dam's location on the Kalamazoo River in Michigan highlights its importance in the region's water infrastructure and the need for ongoing inspection and maintenance to ensure its continued safety and efficiency.

Year Completed

1941

Dam Length

3700

Dam Height

26

River Or Stream

Kalamazoo River

Primary Dam Type

Gravity

Surface Area

1000

Hydraulic Height

21

Drainage Area

991

Nid Storage

6000

Structural Height

26

Outlet Gates

Tainter (radial) - 4

Hazard Potential

High

Nid Height

26
       
Seasonal Comparison

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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.