Elk Rapids Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Located in Antrim County, Michigan, Elk Rapids is home to a gravity dam on Elk Creek that serves as a hydroelectric power source.


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Summary

Completed in 1916, this dam has a height of 21 feet and a length of 87 feet, with a storage capacity of 75,000 acre-feet. The dam's primary purpose is hydroelectric power generation, providing a low hazard potential and moderate risk assessment.

Managed by the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission, Elk Rapids Dam is regulated by the Michigan DEGLE and undergoes regular state inspections and enforcement. With a spillway width of 10 feet and a maximum discharge of 490 cubic feet per second, this dam plays a vital role in water resource management in the region. Despite its age, the dam remains in good condition, with an inspection frequency of 3 years and an emergency action plan last revised in 2020.

Overall, Elk Rapids Dam stands as a historic infrastructure that continues to contribute to sustainable energy production and water resource management in Antrim County. Its multi-arch gravity design and significant storage capacity make it a key player in the local hydroelectric industry, while its regulated operation and maintenance ensure the safety and reliability of this essential water resource structure.

Year Completed

1916

Dam Length

87

Dam Height

21

River Or Stream

Elk Creek

Primary Dam Type

Gravity

Surface Area

34

Drainage Area

513

Nid Storage

75000

Structural Height

21

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

21
       
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.