Boyne River Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

The Boyne River in Boyne City, Michigan is home to a captivating hydroelectric dam that was completed in 1904 by the Consumers Power Company and Holland Ackerman.


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Summary

This Earth-type dam stands at 37 feet tall and spans 950 feet across the river, with a storage capacity of 1,390 acre-feet. The primary purpose of this dam is hydroelectric power generation, but it also serves as a recreational spot for water enthusiasts.

With a low hazard potential and a moderate risk assessment rating, the Boyne River dam poses minimal threat to the surrounding area. The Federal Energy Regulatory Commission oversees the operation and inspection of this structure, ensuring its safety and compliance with regulations. The dam's uncontrolled spillway has a width of 35 feet, allowing for the controlled release of excess water during periods of high discharge.

Located in the picturesque Boyne Valley, this dam is not only a functional piece of infrastructure but also a beautiful sight to behold. Water resource and climate enthusiasts will appreciate the engineering marvel of this multi-arch dam and the vital role it plays in providing renewable energy to the local community.

Year Completed

1904

Dam Length

950

Dam Height

37

River Or Stream

Boyne River

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

80

Hydraulic Height

34

Drainage Area

58

Nid Storage

1390

Structural Height

37

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

37
       
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.