Bond Falls South Auxiliary Dike Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Bond Falls South Auxiliary Dike in Michigan is a vital structure designed for hydroelectric purposes and also offers recreational opportunities.


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Summary

Built in 1938, this earth dam stands at 10 feet high and 25 feet long, with a storage capacity of 36,000 acre-feet and a surface area of 2,160 acres. Located in Ontonagon County, near the Middle Branch Ontonagon River, this dike is regulated and inspected by the Michigan Department of Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy. The Federal Energy Regulatory Commission oversees its operations and inspections, ensuring safety and compliance with regulations.

Despite its low hazard potential, Bond Falls South Auxiliary Dike is constantly monitored and maintained to mitigate any risks. The surrounding area, including the city of Paulding, benefits from this structure in terms of water resource management, hydroelectric power generation, and recreational activities. With its uncontrolled spillway and stone core, this dike serves as a crucial component of the region's infrastructure, providing both environmental and economic benefits. As a part of the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission's oversight, the dike undergoes regular inspections to ensure its structural integrity and adherence to safety standards.

Year Completed

1938

Dam Length

25

Dam Height

10

River Or Stream

Middle Branch Ontonagon

Surface Area

2160

Hydraulic Height

10

Nid Storage

36000

Structural Height

10

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

10
       
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.