Sturgis Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 5, 2025
Located in St.
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Summary
Joseph, Michigan, the Sturgis Dam along the St Joseph River was completed in 1913 and serves as a key hydroelectric and recreational resource in the area. With a dam height of 25 feet and a length of 800 feet, the dam has a storage capacity of 9,300 acre-feet and a normal storage level of 6,550 acre-feet. The dam's primary purpose is hydroelectric power generation, with additional benefits for recreation.
Managed by the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission, the Sturgis Dam is classified as a buttress dam with a multi-arch core type and is built on a soil foundation. The dam features a controlled spillway with a width of 300 feet and 30 vertical lift outlet gates. Despite a high hazard potential, the dam's condition assessment is currently not available, highlighting the need for regular inspection and maintenance to ensure its safety and longevity.
With a risk assessment rating of very high (1), the Sturgis Dam presents a significant management challenge. Emergency action plans are critical in mitigating potential risks associated with the dam and ensuring the safety of surrounding communities. For water resource and climate enthusiasts, the Sturgis Dam serves as a reminder of the importance of sustainable dam management practices and the ongoing need for proactive risk assessment and mitigation measures.
Year Completed |
1913 |
Dam Length |
800 |
Dam Height |
25 |
River Or Stream |
St Joseph River |
Primary Dam Type |
Buttress |
Surface Area |
580 |
Drainage Area |
950 |
Nid Storage |
9300 |
Outlet Gates |
Vertical Lift - 30 |
Hazard Potential |
High |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
25 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Dam Data Reference
Condition Assessment
SatisfactoryNo 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
HighDams 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.
Sturgis
Jefferson Street Three Rivers