Fallasburg Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Fallasburg Dam, located in Lowell, Michigan, is a historic concrete structure completed in 1903 for hydroelectric purposes along the Flat River.


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Summary

Standing at 35 feet tall with a structural height of 44 feet and a length of 900 feet, the dam provides a maximum storage capacity of 3,500 acre-feet and covers a surface area of 216 acres. Despite its age, the dam has a high hazard potential due to its condition assessment not being available, making it a critical site for regular inspections and risk management.

Owned privately, Fallasburg Dam is primarily regulated by the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC) and has two Tainter radial gates as outlet controls. Its purpose extends beyond hydroelectric generation to include recreation, drawing visitors to enjoy the scenic surroundings of the river. With a high risk rating and no state jurisdiction, the dam's maintenance and emergency preparedness are crucial to ensure the safety of the community and the preservation of this integral part of Michigan's water resource infrastructure.

Year Completed

1903

Dam Length

900

Dam Height

35

River Or Stream

Flat River

Primary Dam Type

Concrete

Surface Area

216

Hydraulic Height

34

Drainage Area

568

Nid Storage

3500

Structural Height

44

Outlet Gates

Tainter (radial) - 2

Hazard Potential

High

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

44
       
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.