Bond Falls Auxiliary Dike Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Bond Falls Auxiliary Dike in Michigan is a key structure designed for hydroelectric power generation and recreation purposes.


°F

°F

mph

Wind

%

Humidity

Summary

Completed in 1938, this earth dam stands at a height of 25 feet and has a length of 250 feet, with a storage capacity of 36,000 acre-feet and a surface area of 2,160 acres. Located on the Middle Branch Ontonagon River in Ontonagon County, this dam is regulated by the Michigan Department of Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy (MICHIGAN DEGLE).

The Federal Energy Regulatory Commission oversees the operations and inspections of the Bond Falls Auxiliary Dike, ensuring its safety and compliance with regulatory standards. With a spillway width of 285 feet and a hazard potential rated as high, the dam poses a moderate risk, prompting ongoing risk management measures. Despite its age, the dam has not undergone recent condition assessments, highlighting the need for continuous monitoring and maintenance to ensure its long-term functionality and safety.

The dam's association with multiple structures and its strategic location make Bond Falls Auxiliary Dike a critical component of water resource management in the region. As a notable feature in the St. Paul District, this dam serves as a testament to the intersection of engineering innovation, environmental stewardship, and sustainable energy production. Enthusiasts of water resources and climate change will find the Bond Falls Auxiliary Dike an intriguing case study in the balancing act between human development and ecological conservation.

Year Completed

1938

Dam Length

250

Dam Height

25

River Or Stream

Middle Branch Ontonagon

Surface Area

2160

Hydraulic Height

25

Nid Storage

36000

Structural Height

25

Hazard Potential

High

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

25
       
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.