Manistique Papers Dam Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 5, 2025
The Manistique Papers Dam, also known as the Paper Mill Dam, is a private concrete structure located on the Manistique River in Manistique, Michigan.
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Summary
Completed in 1919, this dam primarily serves a recreational purpose and stands at a height of 25 feet with a length of 6180 feet. It has a storage capacity of 6000 acre-feet and covers a surface area of 480 acres, making it a significant feature in the area's water resource management.
Despite its historical significance and recreational value, the Manistique Papers Dam is currently assessed as being in poor condition, with a high hazard potential due to its age and structural integrity. The last inspection in 2016 highlighted these concerns, prompting the need for improved risk management measures to address the very high risk level associated with the dam. As a regulated structure under the Michigan DEGLE, the dam plays a crucial role in the local water management system, but its condition warrants attention and potential upgrades to ensure public safety and environmental protection.
As a key component of the Manistique River's infrastructure, the Manistique Papers Dam presents both challenges and opportunities for water resource and climate enthusiasts. Its historical significance, high hazard potential, and current poor condition underscore the importance of ongoing monitoring, assessment, and potentially rehabilitation efforts to ensure the dam's continued safety and functionality in the face of changing climate conditions and evolving regulatory standards. The dam serves as a focal point for discussions around water management, recreation, and public safety, highlighting the complex interplay between human infrastructure and natural ecosystems in our efforts to sustainably steward our water resources for future generations.
Year Completed |
1919 |
Dam Length |
6180 |
Dam Height |
25 |
River Or Stream |
Manistique River |
Primary Dam Type |
Concrete |
Surface Area |
480 |
Hydraulic Height |
25 |
Drainage Area |
1450 |
Nid Storage |
6000 |
Structural Height |
25 |
Hazard Potential |
High |
Nid Height |
25 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Manistique River Near Manistique
|
1270cfs |
Sturgeon River Near Nahma Junction
|
105cfs |
Au Train River At Forest Lake
|
137cfs |
Black River Near Garnet
|
15cfs |
Escanaba River At Cornell
|
700cfs |
Ford River Near Hyde
|
286cfs |
Dam Data Reference
Condition Assessment
SatisfactoryNo 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
HighDams 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.
Manistique Papers Dam
442 Thompson Township