Boardman Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Boardman Dam, also known as Boardman #3, is a crucial structure located in Traverse City, Michigan, along the Boardman River.


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Summary

Built in 1884 for recreational purposes, this earth dam stands at a height of 56 feet and spans 650 feet in length, with a maximum discharge capacity of 5600 cubic feet per second. Despite its historical significance and recreational value, the dam is currently rated as having a high hazard potential and poor condition assessment, highlighting the need for ongoing maintenance and monitoring.

Managed by the local government, Boardman Dam is regulated and permitted by the Michigan Department of Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy (DEGLE). The dam's primary purpose of recreation is supported by its storage capacity of 1260 acre-feet, with a normal storage level of 780 acre-feet. However, with a very high risk assessment rating and no emergency action plan in place, there are concerns about the dam's ability to withstand potential hazards and emergencies.

In light of its aging infrastructure and high-risk profile, Boardman Dam serves as a critical focal point for water resource and climate enthusiasts. As efforts continue to assess and mitigate the dam's risks, it underscores the importance of proactive stewardship and investment in sustainable water management practices for the benefit of the surrounding community and ecosystem.

Year Completed

1884

Dam Length

650

Dam Height

56

River Or Stream

Boardman River

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

89

Hydraulic Height

56

Drainage Area

267

Nid Storage

1260

Structural Height

56

Hazard Potential

High

Nid Height

56
       
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.