Riley Dam is a significant hydroelectric structure located in Branch, Michigan, along the Saint Joseph River.
Wind
Humidity
Completed in 1923, the dam stands at a height of 20.3 feet and has a normal storage capacity of 3,240 acre-feet. With a maximum discharge of 10,000 cubic feet per second, the dam plays a crucial role in harnessing the river's power for hydroelectric purposes.
Managed by the local government and regulated by the Michigan Department of Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy, Riley Dam has been assessed as being in satisfactory condition as of July 2020. Despite its significant hazard potential, the dam's risk assessment is considered very high (level 1), prompting the need for stringent risk management measures. With a controlled spillway width of 80 feet, Riley Dam is designed to withstand potential emergencies and ensure the safety of surrounding communities.
As a gravity dam with a rich history of over a century, Riley Dam remains a key landmark in Sherwood, Michigan. Its strategic location and purposeful design underscore its vital contribution to both water resource management and climate-friendly energy generation in the region.
Year Completed |
1923 |
Dam Length |
824 |
Dam Height |
20.3 |
River Or Stream |
Saint Joseph River |
Primary Dam Type |
Gravity |
Surface Area |
518 |
Hydraulic Height |
17.3 |
Drainage Area |
523 |
Nid Storage |
5000 |
Structural Height |
20.3 |
Hazard Potential |
Significant |
Nid Height |
20 |
| Location | Reservations | Toilets |
|---|---|---|
Angel Cove
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Potawatomi Rec Area
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Memorial Park Campground - Coldwater
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