Faussett Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Faussett Dam, located in Gaines, Michigan, is a privately owned structure on the Yellow River with a primary purpose of recreation.


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Summary

Completed in 1960, this earth dam stands at 17 feet high and spans 530 feet in length, providing a storage capacity of 800 acre-feet. The dam is regulated by the Michigan DEGLE and undergoes regular inspections to ensure its fair condition and low hazard potential.

Despite its low hazard potential, Faussett Dam is classified as having a very high risk due to its location and the potential impact of a breach. The dam features a controlled spillway with a width of 2 feet and has a maximum discharge capability of 50 cubic feet per second. The surrounding area has a drainage area of 2.1 square miles and a surface area of 74 acres, making it a vital resource for both water storage and recreational activities.

With an emphasis on safety and risk management, Faussett Dam is a crucial structure that requires ongoing monitoring and maintenance to ensure the protection of downstream communities and the preservation of its recreational value. The dam's association with the Yellow River and its importance in the local ecosystem make it a significant focal point for water resource and climate enthusiasts seeking to understand the intersection of human infrastructure and natural landscapes in Michigan.

Year Completed

1960

Dam Length

530

Dam Height

17

River Or Stream

Yellow River

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

74

Hydraulic Height

17

Drainage Area

2.1

Nid Storage

800

Structural Height

17

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

17
       
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.