Three Rivers Reservoir Report
Nearby: Portage Plant Dam Sturgis
Last Updated: December 5, 2025
Three Rivers is a historic gravity dam located on the St.
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Summary
Joseph River in Three Rivers, Michigan. Built in 1917, this privately owned dam stands at 16 feet high and spans 1321.5 feet in length, with a maximum storage capacity of 902 acre-feet and a drainage area of 985 acres. The dam's vertical lift gates and high hazard potential make it a critical structure for water resource management in the region.
Managed by the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission, Three Rivers plays a key role in regulating water flow, maintaining flood control, and providing hydroelectric power generation. Despite its age, the dam's condition assessment is currently listed as "Not Available," highlighting the need for regular inspection and maintenance protocols to ensure its continued safe operation. With its rich history and vital role in the local ecosystem, Three Rivers is a significant landmark for water resource and climate enthusiasts to explore and appreciate.
Year Completed |
1917 |
Dam Length |
1321.5 |
Dam Height |
16 |
River Or Stream |
St Joseph River |
Primary Dam Type |
Gravity |
Surface Area |
601 |
Drainage Area |
985 |
Nid Storage |
902 |
Structural Height |
12.6 |
Outlet Gates |
Vertical Lift - 19 |
Hazard Potential |
High |
Nid Height |
16 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
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.
Three Rivers
Jefferson Street Three Rivers