Foote Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Foote Hydroelectric Dam, located on the picturesque Au Sable River in Oscoda, Michigan, is a gravity dam with a rich history dating back to its completion in 1918.


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Summary

Designed by Fargo Engineering, this dam stands at a height of 51 feet and boasts a storage capacity of 30,000 acre-feet, making it a vital source of hydroelectric power in the region. The dam's spillway, controlled with a width of 72 feet, ensures the safe management of water flow and contributes to its high hazard potential rating.

Managed by the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission, Foote Dam plays a crucial role in regulating water resources and climate in the area. With a drainage area of 1,664 square miles and a maximum discharge of 38,774 cubic feet per second, the dam serves as a key component in the region's water infrastructure. Despite its age, Foote Dam continues to operate with a risk assessment rating of very high, emphasizing the importance of ongoing maintenance and management to ensure its safety and efficiency for years to come.

As a primary source of hydroelectric power, Foote Dam demonstrates the intersection of water resource management and climate action. Its historical significance, structural design, and operational capacity make it a noteworthy landmark for water resource and climate enthusiasts alike. With a commitment to safety and efficiency, this gravity dam stands as a testament to the enduring impact of sustainable energy practices on our environment.

Year Completed

1918

Dam Length

4100

Dam Height

47

River Or Stream

Au Sable River

Primary Dam Type

Gravity

Surface Area

1800

Hydraulic Height

43

Drainage Area

1664

Nid Storage

30000

Structural Height

51

Outlet Gates

Tainter (radial) - 3

Hazard Potential

High

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

51
       
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.