Webber Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Webber Dam, located in Ionia, Michigan, on the Grand River, is a significant structure with a primary purpose of hydroelectric power generation.


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Summary

Built in 1907, this gravity dam stands at a height of 30 feet and has a hydraulic height of 28.5 feet. With a storage capacity of 6,000 acre-feet and a surface area of 660 acres, the dam plays a crucial role in managing water resources in the region.

Owned by a public utility, Webber Dam is regulated by the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission and has a high hazard potential due to its location. The dam features a controlled spillway with a width of 260 feet and a maximum discharge capacity of 50,226 cubic feet per second. Despite its age, the dam's condition assessment is not available, posing challenges for risk management and emergency preparedness.

In light of its historical significance and role in water resource management, Webber Dam serves as a focal point for hydroelectric enthusiasts and climate advocates. With its unique design and high hazard potential, the dam highlights the intersection of infrastructure, climate resilience, and the need for sustainable water resource management in the face of changing environmental conditions.

Year Completed

1907

Dam Length

1200

Dam Height

30

River Or Stream

Grand River

Primary Dam Type

Gravity

Surface Area

660

Hydraulic Height

28.5

Drainage Area

1750

Nid Storage

6000

Structural Height

33

Outlet Gates

Bascule - 1, Tainter (radial) - 10

Hazard Potential

High

Nid Height

33
       
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.