Loud Reservoir Report
Nearby: Five Channels Ketchikan
Last Updated: December 5, 2025
Loud Dam, located in Oscoda, Michigan, along the scenic Au Sable River, has been serving as a vital hydroelectric facility since its completion in 1913.
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Summary
The dam stands at a height of 40 feet and boasts a structural height of 35 feet, with a hydraulic height of 28 feet, making it an impressive gravity dam with a multi-arch core design. With a normal storage capacity of 12,600 acre-feet and a surface area of 790 acres, Loud Dam plays a crucial role in water resource management in the region.
Managed by a public utility, Loud Dam is regulated by the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC) and is primarily used for hydroelectric power generation and recreation purposes. Its controlled spillway, with a width of 72 feet, ensures safe water discharge during peak flow conditions. Despite its high hazard potential, the dam's condition assessment is currently not available, underscoring the importance of regular inspections and risk management measures. With a maximum discharge capacity of 28,853 cubic feet per second, Loud Dam remains a key infrastructure in the region's water resource and climate resilience efforts.
As an iconic landmark in Iosco County, Michigan, Loud Dam continues to be a symbol of sustainable energy production and environmental stewardship. With a rich history dating back over a century, the dam's significance lies not only in its hydroelectric capabilities but also in its role in providing recreational opportunities and supporting the local ecosystem. As water resource and climate enthusiasts, the preservation and maintenance of Loud Dam serve as a reminder of the delicate balance between harnessing the power of water for human needs while ensuring the protection of natural habitats and resources for future generations.
Year Completed |
1913 |
Dam Length |
2180 |
Dam Height |
40 |
River Or Stream |
Au Sable River |
Primary Dam Type |
Gravity |
Surface Area |
790 |
Hydraulic Height |
28 |
Drainage Area |
1602 |
Nid Storage |
12600 |
Structural Height |
35 |
Outlet Gates |
Tainter (radial) - 3 |
Hazard Potential |
High |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
40 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Au Sable River Near Curtisville
|
937cfs |
Au Sable River Near Mc Kinley
|
931cfs |
Au Sable River Near Au Sable
|
991cfs |
Au Sable River At Mio
|
745cfs |
Rifle River Near Sterling
|
210cfs |
Au Sable River Near Red Oak
|
633cfs |
Dam Data Reference
Condition Assessment
SatisfactoryNo 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
HighDams 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.
Area Campgrounds
| Location | Reservations | Toilets |
|---|---|---|
Au Sable River Camp
|
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Rollways Campground and Day Use Area
|
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South Branch Trail Campground
|
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Monument Campground
|
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070D
|
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071D
|
Loud
Pine Acres Boat Launch