Way Dike D Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Way Dike D is a vital earth dam located in Iron Mountain, Michigan, along the scenic Michigamme River.


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Summary

Completed in 1941, this dam serves multiple purposes including flood risk reduction, hydroelectric power generation, and recreation. With a height of 15 feet and a storage capacity of over 125,000 acre-feet, it plays a crucial role in managing water resources in the area.

Owned by a public utility and regulated by the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission, Way Dike D is classified as having a high hazard potential. Despite its age, the dam's condition assessment is currently unavailable, raising concerns about its long-term safety and effectiveness. The dam has passed regular inspections, with the last one conducted in June 2019, and is monitored for any potential risks or hazards.

For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Way Dike D is a fascinating structure that combines engineering ingenuity with environmental stewardship. Its presence on the Michigamme River not only provides essential services like flood control and electricity generation but also offers recreational opportunities for the local community. As concerns about climate change and water management grow, understanding and monitoring dams like Way Dike D becomes increasingly important for ensuring the resilience and sustainability of our water resources.

Year Completed

1941

Dam Length

1338

Dam Height

15

River Or Stream

Michigamme River

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

6400

Nid Storage

125350

Hazard Potential

High

Nid Height

15
       
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.