Summary
Built in 1966, this earth dam stands at a height of 20 feet with a length of 880 feet. It has a storage capacity of 808 acre-feet and covers a surface area of 43 acres, making it a popular spot for outdoor activities such as fishing, boating, and wildlife observation.
Despite its low hazard potential, Maple River Dam is currently rated as being in poor condition as of the last inspection in December 2014. The dam features an uncontrolled spillway with a width of 28 feet, and a maximum discharge capacity of 1,600 cubic feet per second. It is regulated by the Michigan Department of Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy (DEGLE), and undergoes state inspections and enforcement to ensure public safety and environmental protection. While the dam poses a moderate risk, measures for risk management and emergency preparedness are yet to be fully implemented.
For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Maple River Dam offers a fascinating case study in the intersection of infrastructure, recreation, and environmental stewardship. Its historical significance and ongoing maintenance challenges provide valuable insights into the complexities of managing dams in a changing climate. As efforts continue to assess and address the dam's condition and safety concerns, the Maple River Dam remains a vital piece of Michigan's water infrastructure landscape, highlighting the delicate balance between human enjoyment and ecological conservation.
Year Completed |
1966 |
Dam Length |
880 |
Dam Height |
20 |
River Or Stream |
Maple River |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
43 |
Hydraulic Height |
20 |
Drainage Area |
159 |
Nid Storage |
808 |
Structural Height |
20 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Nid Height |
20 |
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.
Area Campgrounds
| Location | Reservations | Toilets |
|---|---|---|
Maple Bay State Forest Campground
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Maple Bay - State Forest
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Camp Petosega
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Marriott Camper Rentals LLC
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Organization Campground
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Petoskey State Park
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Maple River Dam
Koepke Road McKinley Township