Escanaba No 1 Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Located in Wells, Michigan, the Escanaba No 1 Dam, also known as Flat Rock #1 Dam, stands proudly along the Escanaba River.


°F

°F

mph

Wind

%

Humidity

Summary

Built in 1907, this private-owned gravity dam serves a primary purpose of hydroelectric power generation. Standing at a height of 31 feet and stretching 800 feet in length, the dam has a storage capacity of 2000 acre-feet, with a normal storage level of 750 acre-feet.

With a controlled spillway width of 438 feet, the Escanaba No 1 Dam has a maximum discharge capacity of 14,600 cubic feet per second. Despite being classified as a low hazard potential structure with a very high risk assessment, the dam's condition assessment is currently not rated. The last inspection of the dam was conducted in May 2008, with an inspection frequency of 5 years. Although the dam is not regulated by the state, it plays a vital role in the region's water resource management and climate adaptation efforts.

For water resource and climate enthusiasts, the Escanaba No 1 Dam represents a historic engineering marvel that harnesses the power of the Escanaba River for hydroelectricity generation. As a key infrastructure along the river, the dam provides valuable insights into the intersection of water management, energy production, and environmental conservation. Its strategic location and design highlights the importance of sustainable development and resilience in the face of changing climatic conditions.

Year Completed

1907

Dam Length

800

Dam Height

31

River Or Stream

Escanaba River

Primary Dam Type

Gravity

Surface Area

125

Hydraulic Height

31

Drainage Area

892

Nid Storage

2000

Structural Height

31

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

31
       
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.