Middleville is a hydroelectric dam located on the Thornapple River in Michigan.
Wind
Humidity
Built in 1940, this earth and gravity dam stands at a height of 15 feet and spans 166 feet in length. With a storage capacity of 270 acre-feet and a drainage area of 557 square miles, Middleville plays a crucial role in harnessing the power of water for energy generation.
Managed by the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission, Middleville's dam serves a primary purpose of hydroelectric power generation. Its controlled spillway and other controlled outlet gates ensure the safe release of water, with a maximum discharge rate of 3200 cubic feet per second. Despite its low hazard potential, Middleville is subject to regular inspections and has a risk assessment rating of "Very High (1)", highlighting the importance of effective risk management measures in safeguarding this vital water resource.
Middleville's strategic location, efficient design, and significant storage capacity make it a key player in water resource management and climate sustainability efforts. Its role in hydroelectric power generation underscores the intersection of water infrastructure and renewable energy production, highlighting the importance of maintaining and monitoring dams like Middleville to ensure both water security and environmental resilience in the face of changing climate conditions.
Year Completed |
1940 |
Dam Length |
166 |
Dam Height |
15 |
River Or Stream |
Thornapple River |
Surface Area |
30 |
Drainage Area |
557 |
Nid Storage |
270 |
Outlet Gates |
Other Controlled - 1 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
15 |
Thornapple River Near Hastings
|
132cfs |
Rabbit River Near Hopkins
|
24cfs |
Grand River At Grand Rapids
|
1480cfs |
Quaker Brook Near Nashville
|
21cfs |
Augusta Creek Near Augusta
|
20cfs |
Rogue River Near Rockford
|
126cfs |