Tippy Dam, located in Manistee, Michigan, was completed in 1918 and stands as a remarkable structure along the Manistee River.
Wind
Humidity
This gravity dam, with a height of 82 feet and a hydraulic height of 59 feet, serves primarily for recreational purposes, offering a surface area of 1330 acres and a storage capacity of 27,620 acre-feet. The dam has a controlled spillway with a width of 96 feet and is equipped with Tainter radial gates for water release.
Despite its age, Tippy Dam is still functioning well, with a high hazard potential due to its structural integrity and proximity to populated areas downstream. The Federal Energy Regulatory Commission oversees its operations and inspections, ensuring that it meets safety standards. The risk assessment ranks the dam as very high, emphasizing the importance of effective risk management measures to prevent potential disasters and protect the surrounding community and environment.
For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Tippy Dam stands as a historic landmark that not only provides recreational opportunities but also poses challenges in terms of risk management and maintenance. Its rich history and engineering marvel make it a fascinating site to study and appreciate the intersection of human ingenuity and environmental impact. As climate change continues to affect water resources, the resilience and management of structures like Tippy Dam will be crucial in ensuring the sustainable use of our waterways for generations to come.
Year Completed |
1918 |
Dam Length |
830 |
Dam Height |
82 |
River Or Stream |
Manistee River |
Primary Dam Type |
Gravity |
Surface Area |
1330 |
Hydraulic Height |
59 |
Drainage Area |
1451 |
Nid Storage |
27620 |
Structural Height |
71 |
Outlet Gates |
Tainter (radial) - 4 |
Hazard Potential |
High |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
82 |
| Location | Reservations | Toilets |
|---|---|---|
Tippy Dam North Recreation Area
|
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Sawdust Hole River Access
|
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Government Landing
|
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Dorner Lake
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Red Bridge River Access Site
|
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Blacksmith Bayou Campground
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