Sturgeon Falls Reservoir Report
Nearby: Sturgeon Falls Mary Lake Dam
Last Updated: December 5, 2025
Sturgeon Falls, located in Marinette, Michigan, along the Menominee River, is a significant hydroelectric dam with a rich history dating back to 1905.
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Summary
This concrete gravity dam stands at a height of 37 feet and stretches 270 feet in length, providing a storage capacity of 2000 acre-feet with a surface area of 570 acres. With a drainage area of 3014 square miles, Sturgeon Falls has a maximum discharge of 23800 cubic feet per second and is classified as having a significant hazard potential.
Managed by the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission, Sturgeon Falls plays a pivotal role in generating hydroelectric power for the local community. The dam features a controlled spillway with a width of 40 feet and is equipped with two Tainter radial gates for water release. Despite its age, the dam's condition assessment is currently not available, but it undergoes regular inspections to ensure its safety and structural integrity. With a very high risk rating and a notable presence in the region, Sturgeon Falls serves as a key player in water resource management and climate adaptation efforts in the area.
As an essential piece of infrastructure in the region, Sturgeon Falls not only contributes to renewable energy production but also poses a critical point of interest for water resource and climate enthusiasts. With its historical significance, structural design, and operational capabilities, the dam stands as a testament to human ingenuity in harnessing the power of water for the greater good. As discussions around water security, climate resilience, and sustainable energy sources continue to evolve, Sturgeon Falls remains a focal point for understanding the intersection of engineering, environment, and community well-being.
Year Completed |
1905 |
Dam Length |
270 |
Dam Height |
37 |
River Or Stream |
Menominee River |
Primary Dam Type |
Concrete |
Surface Area |
570 |
Hydraulic Height |
37 |
Drainage Area |
3014 |
Nid Storage |
2000 |
Structural Height |
37 |
Outlet Gates |
Tainter (radial) - 2 |
Hazard Potential |
Significant |
Foundations |
Rock |
Nid Height |
37 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Menominee River Near Vulcan
|
1530cfs |
Menominee River At Niagara
|
1290cfs |
Menominee River Below Pemene Creek Near Pembine
|
1640cfs |
Menominee River At Twin Falls Near Iron Mt
|
3420cfs |
Pike River At Amberg
|
186cfs |
Menominee River At White Rapids Dam Near Banat
|
1200cfs |
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.
Sturgeon Falls
River Road Norway Township