Wilcox Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Located in Plymouth, Michigan, Wilcox Dam, also known as Plymouth Dam, stands as a local government-owned structure along the Middle Branch River Rouge.


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Summary

Completed in 1933, this gravity dam serves primarily for recreational purposes, offering a serene backdrop for outdoor enthusiasts. With a height of 27 feet and a length of 950 feet, Wilcox Dam holds a maximum storage capacity of 120 acre-feet and covers a surface area of 12 acres.

Despite its age, Wilcox Dam has been well-maintained, with regular inspections and a satisfactory condition assessment as of January 2018. The dam's spillway, which is uncontrolled, boasts a width of 89 feet and can handle a maximum discharge of 2790 cubic feet per second. While it poses a high hazard potential, the risk assessment remains moderate, indicating a level of preparedness and management measures in place to mitigate potential dangers.

With its picturesque location and essential role in providing recreational opportunities, Wilcox Dam stands as a testament to the careful balance between water resource management and environmental stewardship in the state of Michigan. Its historical significance, coupled with its continued functionality, makes it a valuable asset to the community and a focal point for water resource and climate enthusiasts alike.

Year Completed

1933

Dam Length

950

Dam Height

27

River Or Stream

Middle Branch River Rouge

Primary Dam Type

Gravity

Surface Area

12

Hydraulic Height

22

Drainage Area

57.45

Nid Storage

120

Structural Height

27

Hazard Potential

High

Nid Height

27
       
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.