Escanaba No 3 Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Escanaba No 3 is a concrete, earth, gravity dam located in Escanaba, Michigan, completed in 1919.


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Summary

This multi-arch dam stands at a height of 29 feet and spans a length of 1300 feet, with a storage capacity of 1 acre-foot. Situated on the Escanaba River, the dam has a maximum discharge of 21,100 cubic feet per second and features three Tainter radial gates as outlet structures.

Managed by the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission, Escanaba No 3 has a high hazard potential and is categorized as a moderate risk structure. Despite its age, the condition assessment of the dam is currently not available, with the last inspection conducted in September 2020. The Emergency Action Plan was last revised in December 2020, ensuring that necessary measures are in place in case of emergencies.

Water resource and climate enthusiasts will find Escanaba No 3 a fascinating structure, with its historical significance and vital role in managing water flow in the Escanaba River. While the dam poses a high hazard potential, its risk is considered moderate, highlighting the importance of regular inspections and emergency preparedness. As a key feature in Michigan's water infrastructure, Escanaba No 3 serves as a reminder of the intersection between human engineering and natural resources.

Year Completed

1919

Dam Length

1300

Dam Height

29

River Or Stream

Escanaba

Surface Area

1

Drainage Area

907

Nid Storage

1

Outlet Gates

Tainter (radial) - 3

Hazard Potential

High

Foundations

Rock

Nid Height

29
       
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.