Phoenix Dam, located in Plymouth, Michigan, along the Middle Branch River Rouge, is a gravity dam completed in 1920 primarily designed for recreational purposes.
Wind
Humidity
Standing at a height of 24 feet with a length of 500 feet, the dam has a storage capacity of 450 acre-feet and a surface area of 35 acres. Despite its age, the dam is in satisfactory condition as of the last inspection in January 2018, with a high hazard potential due to its location and the surrounding area.
Managed by the local government, Phoenix Dam is regulated by the Michigan Department of Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy (DEGLE), with state permitting, inspection, and enforcement in place. The dam features an uncontrolled spillway with a width of 60 feet and a maximum discharge capacity of 2,860 cubic feet per second. With a drainage area of 56.15 square miles, the dam serves as a vital component in managing water resources and mitigating flood risks in the region.
Water resource and climate enthusiasts will find Phoenix Dam to be a significant structure offering both recreational opportunities and essential water management functions. Its historical significance, coupled with its current operational capabilities and regulatory oversight, make it a fascinating subject for those interested in the intersection of infrastructure, environmental conservation, and public safety in the context of water resource management.
Year Completed |
1920 |
Dam Length |
500 |
Dam Height |
24 |
River Or Stream |
Middle Branch River Rouge |
Primary Dam Type |
Gravity |
Surface Area |
35 |
Hydraulic Height |
24 |
Drainage Area |
56.15 |
Nid Storage |
450 |
Structural Height |
24 |
Hazard Potential |
High |
Nid Height |
24 |
| Location | Reservations | Toilets |
|---|---|---|
Group Use Area
|
||
Wayne County Fairgrounds RV
|
||
Proud Lake State Rec Area
|