Falmouth Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 25, 2025

Located in Falmouth, Michigan, the Falmouth Dam is a local government-owned structure on the Clam River with a primary purpose of recreation.


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Summary

Built in 1930, this earth dam stands at a height of 15 feet and spans a length of 1500 feet, providing a storage capacity of 275 acre-feet. The dam's spillway type is uncontrolled with a width of 46 feet, and it has a low hazard potential with a satisfactory condition assessment as of August 2019.

Managed by the Michigan Department of Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy (DEGLE), the Falmouth Dam is subject to state regulation, permitting, inspection, and enforcement. The dam's risk assessment is considered moderate, with a risk level of 3, indicating a need for ongoing monitoring and management measures. While the dam has not undergone recent modifications, it is inspected every five years to ensure its structural integrity and safety for the surrounding community.

With its scenic location and recreational opportunities, the Falmouth Dam serves as a vital asset for the Missaukee County area. As climate change impacts water resources and infrastructure, maintaining the dam's resilience and functionality will be crucial for sustainable water management and recreation in the region. The dam's role in flood control, water storage, and overall environmental stewardship highlights the importance of ongoing monitoring and maintenance to ensure its continued benefit to the community and ecosystem.

Year Completed

1930

Dam Length

1500

Dam Height

15

River Or Stream

Clam River

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

23

Hydraulic Height

14

Drainage Area

234

Nid Storage

275

Structural Height

15

Hazard Potential

Low

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.