Morley Dam, also known as Frank Deyo Dam, is a gravity dam located on the Little Muskegon River in Morley, Michigan.
Wind
Humidity
Built in 1908, this dam serves primarily for recreational purposes, offering a surface area of 57 acres and a maximum storage capacity of 600 acre-feet. With a height of 22 feet and a length of 460 feet, Morley Dam plays a crucial role in regulating the flow of the river and providing water storage for the surrounding area.
Managed by the local government and regulated by the Michigan Department of Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy (DEGLE), Morley Dam has a significant hazard potential but is currently assessed as being in satisfactory condition. The dam features a controlled spillway with a width of 64 feet to manage excess water flow, and has a maximum discharge capacity of 3,375 cubic feet per second. Despite its age, Morley Dam continues to be inspected regularly to ensure its structural integrity and safety for nearby residents and recreational users.
With a very high risk assessment rating of 1, Morley Dam requires vigilant risk management measures to mitigate potential hazards and ensure public safety. The dam's emergency action plan, last revised in 2013, serves as a guideline for responding to any unforeseen events or emergencies. As a historic structure that significantly impacts the local water resources and climate, Morley Dam remains a key focal point for water resource and climate enthusiasts in the Mecosta County area.
Year Completed |
1908 |
Dam Length |
460 |
Dam Height |
22 |
River Or Stream |
Little Muskegon River |
Primary Dam Type |
Gravity |
Surface Area |
57 |
Hydraulic Height |
22 |
Drainage Area |
157 |
Nid Storage |
600 |
Structural Height |
22 |
Hazard Potential |
Significant |
Nid Height |
22 |
Little Muskegon River Near Oak Grove
|
164cfs |
Muskegon River Near Croton
|
1260cfs |
Fish Creek Near Crystal
|
14cfs |
Rogue River Near Rockford
|
126cfs |
Muskegon River At Evart
|
373cfs |
Grand River At Grand Rapids
|
1480cfs |
| Location | Reservations | Toilets |
|---|---|---|
Newaygo State Park
|
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Newaygo State Park Rustic Campground
|
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Brower County Park
|
||
Big Bend Park
|
||
Oxbow Park
|
||
Canadian Lakes Campground
|