Norway Point Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Norway Point, located in Alpena, Michigan, is a hydroelectric dam constructed in 1924 with a primary purpose of generating hydroelectric power.


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Summary

The dam stands at a height of 43 feet and has a length of 2320 feet, with a storage capacity of 27,550 acre-feet and a maximum discharge of 55,000 cubic feet per second. The dam is of a multi-arch design and is built on a rock foundation, serving not only for power generation but also for recreation purposes.

Managed by the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission, Norway Point has a high hazard potential and is classified as a high-risk structure. The dam does not have a spillway, and the outlet gates include 16 needle gates and 3 other controlled gates. Despite its age, the condition assessment of Norway Point is not available, and the last inspection was conducted in September 2020. It is essential for water resource and climate enthusiasts to recognize the significance of maintaining and monitoring dams like Norway Point to ensure public safety and efficient water resource management in the region.

Year Completed

1924

Dam Length

2320

Dam Height

43

River Or Stream

Thunder Bay

Surface Area

1700

Drainage Area

1260

Nid Storage

27550

Outlet Gates

Needle - 16, Other Controlled - 3

Hazard Potential

High

Foundations

Rock

Nid Height

43
       
Seasonal Comparison

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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.