Hodenpyl Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Hodenpyl Dam, located on the Manistee River in Michigan, is a gravity dam with a height of 90 feet and a hydraulic height of 70 feet.


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Summary

Completed in 1925, the dam serves a primary purpose of hydroelectric power generation and has a normal storage capacity of 39,684 acre-feet. The dam's spillway is controlled, and it features six roller gates for water release.

The dam's hazard potential is considered high, with a risk assessment rating of very high. Although the condition assessment is not available, the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission conducts inspections of the dam, with the last inspection date in September 2020. The emergency action plan for the dam was last revised in October 2019, indicating a commitment to safety and preparedness in the event of an emergency situation. With its significant impact on the local water resources and surrounding environment, Hodenpyl Dam is a critical infrastructure for both water resource management and climate enthusiasts to monitor and support.

Year Completed

1925

Dam Length

4270

Dam Height

90

River Or Stream

Manistee River

Primary Dam Type

Gravity

Surface Area

1798

Hydraulic Height

70

Drainage Area

1018

Nid Storage

39684

Structural Height

78

Outlet Gates

Roller - 6

Hazard Potential

High

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

90
       
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.