Foch Lakes Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Foch Lakes Dam, located in Tower, Michigan, is a state-regulated structure built in 1948 primarily for recreation purposes.


°F

°F

mph

Wind

%

Humidity

Summary

With a height of 13 feet and a hydraulic height of 11.5 feet, the earth dam holds a storage capacity of 440 acre-feet, providing a surface area of 60 acres for visitors to enjoy. The dam spans 200 feet along a tributary to the East Branch Black River, offering a tranquil escape for water resource and climate enthusiasts.

Despite being classified as having a low hazard potential, Foch Lakes Dam underwent its last inspection in October 2011, with a fair condition assessment reported. The dam's spillway, with a width of 14 feet, is of the uncontrolled type, allowing for a maximum discharge of 190 cubic feet per second. While the risk assessment deems the structure to have a moderate risk level, measures for risk management and emergency preparedness, such as an Emergency Action Plan (EAP), are not currently in place. Overall, Foch Lakes Dam presents an opportunity for outdoor recreation and serves as a peaceful retreat in Montmorency County, Michigan, for those interested in water resource management and climate observation.

Year Completed

1948

Dam Length

200

Dam Height

13

River Or Stream

Tributary to E Br Black River

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

60

Hydraulic Height

11.5

Drainage Area

2.3

Nid Storage

440

Structural Height

13

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

13
       
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.