Silver Lake Southwest Dike Reservoir Report

Last Updated: January 12, 2026

Silver Lake Southwest Dike, also known as Dike 4, is a key structure in Marquette, Michigan, designed for hydroelectric purposes.


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Summary

Built in 1912, this earth dam stands at 8.2 feet high and stretches 176 feet in length, with a storage capacity of 29,300 acre-feet. The dam's primary purpose is to generate hydroelectric power while also providing recreational opportunities for the community.

Located on the Dead River, this dam is regulated by the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission and undergoes inspections every three years to ensure its low hazard potential. Despite its age, the condition assessment of Silver Lake Southwest Dike is not currently available, although the risk assessment is classified as moderate. With a surface area of 1,220 acres and a normal storage capacity of 28,000 acre-feet, this structure plays a crucial role in water resource management in the region.

Owned by an unspecified entity, Silver Lake Southwest Dike is situated in a picturesque setting in Marquette County, Michigan. With its uncontrolled spillway and historical significance, this dam serves as a reminder of the community's commitment to sustainable water resource management and climate resilience. As water resource and climate enthusiasts, the preservation and ongoing maintenance of this structure are essential for ensuring the continued safety and efficiency of its operations.

Year Completed

1912

Dam Length

176

Dam Height

8.2

River Or Stream

Dead River

Surface Area

1220

Nid Storage

29300

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

8
       
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.