Fords Dam, also known as Wingford Dam, is a private structure located on the Black River in Port Huron, Michigan.
Wind
Humidity
Built in 1930, this buttress dam stands at a height of 31 feet and spans a length of 585 feet. With a primary purpose of recreation, the dam offers a storage capacity of 3,000 acre-feet and a surface area of 93 acres, making it a popular spot for outdoor activities and water sports enthusiasts.
Managed by the Michigan Department of Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy (DEGLE), Fords Dam is regulated, permitted, inspected, and enforced by state authorities to ensure its safety and compliance with regulations. The dam features a controlled spillway with a width of 104 feet, capable of handling a maximum discharge of 15,175 cubic feet per second. Despite its low hazard potential and satisfactory condition assessment, the dam is categorized as having a very high risk due to its location and surrounding factors, prompting the need for ongoing risk management measures.
As a key feature in the Buffalo District of Michigan, Fords Dam provides not only recreational opportunities but also serves as a vital component in the local water resource infrastructure. With its rich history and significant impact on the Black River ecosystem, this dam continues to be a focal point for water resource and climate enthusiasts interested in the intersection of human-built structures and natural environments.
Year Completed |
1930 |
Dam Length |
585 |
Dam Height |
31 |
River Or Stream |
Black River |
Primary Dam Type |
Buttress |
Surface Area |
93 |
Hydraulic Height |
30.8 |
Drainage Area |
486 |
Nid Storage |
3000 |
Structural Height |
31 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Nid Height |
31 |
Black River Near Jeddo
|
25cfs |
Mill Creek Near Avoca
|
18cfs |
Belle River At Memphis
|
21cfs |
East Pond Creek At Romeo
|
7cfs |
Middle Branch Clinton River At Macomb
|
7cfs |
Stony Creek Near Romeo
|
13cfs |
| Location | Reservations | Toilets |
|---|---|---|
Ruby Campground
|
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Silver Trails Scout Reservation
|
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Lakeport State Park
|