Plainwell Dam #1, located on the Kalamazoo River in Allegan, Michigan, was completed in 1902 and serves a primary purpose of recreation.
Wind
Humidity
This gravity dam stands at a height of 21 feet with a hydraulic height of 14.6 feet and a length of 1185 feet. It has a normal storage capacity of 490 acre-feet and a maximum discharge of 5800 cubic feet per second. The spillway, which is uncontrolled, has a width of 335 feet.
Despite being classified as having a low hazard potential and a moderate risk assessment, Plainwell Dam #1 has not been rated for its condition. The last inspection took place in 2004, with a scheduled inspection frequency of every five years. However, the emergency action plan (EAP) was last revised in 2007, indicating a potential need for updated emergency protocols. The dam is not regulated by the state and does not have associated locks or outlet gates.
For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Plainwell Dam #1 offers a glimpse into the historical engineering feats that have shaped Michigan's water infrastructure. Its location on the Kalamazoo River provides opportunities for recreational activities, but the lack of recent condition assessments and emergency preparedness updates raise concerns about its long-term safety and maintenance. As discussions around water resource management and climate resilience continue to evolve, Plainwell Dam #1 serves as a reminder of the importance of proactive monitoring and risk mitigation for aging infrastructure.
Year Completed |
1902 |
Dam Length |
1185 |
Dam Height |
21 |
River Or Stream |
Kalamazoo River |
Primary Dam Type |
Gravity |
Surface Area |
56 |
Hydraulic Height |
14.6 |
Drainage Area |
1299 |
Nid Storage |
1460 |
Structural Height |
21 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Nid Height |
21 |
| Location | Reservations | Toilets |
|---|---|---|
Brookside City Park
|
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Camp Merrie Wood
|
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Markin Glen County Park
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