Dollarville Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Dollarville Dam, located on the Tahquamenon River in Luce, Michigan, was completed in 1971 for the primary purpose of recreation.


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Summary

This earth dam stands at a height of 12 feet with a hydraulic height of 10 feet, creating a reservoir with a maximum storage capacity of 10,400 acre-feet. The dam spans 2,500 feet in length and covers a surface area of 1,200 acres, serving as a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts seeking water-based activities.

Maintained and regulated by the Michigan Department of Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy (DEGLE), Dollarville Dam has a low hazard potential and is classified as being in satisfactory condition as of the last inspection in August 2018. Despite its low hazard rating, the dam poses a very high risk due to its location and potential impact in case of failure. With a controlled spillway type and a width of 84 feet, the dam is equipped to manage a maximum discharge of 5,275 cubic feet per second, ensuring the safety of nearby communities and the surrounding environment.

As a key structure in the Detroit District of the US Army Corps of Engineers, Dollarville Dam plays a crucial role in water resource management and climate resilience efforts in the region. With its recreational purpose and strategic location on the Tahquamenon River, this dam serves as a vital asset for both local communities and visitors alike, highlighting the importance of sustainable dam operations and maintenance practices for the long-term protection of water resources and the natural environment.

Year Completed

1971

Dam Length

2500

Dam Height

12

River Or Stream

Tahquamenon River

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

1200

Hydraulic Height

10

Drainage Area

168

Nid Storage

10400

Structural Height

12

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

12
       
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.