Tower Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Tower is a historic hydroelectric structure located on the Black River in Cheboygan, Michigan.


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Summary

Built in 1918, this gravity dam stands at a height of 29 feet and serves multiple purposes including hydroelectric power generation and recreation. With a maximum storage capacity of 620 acre-feet and a normal storage of 620 acre-feet, Tower plays a crucial role in water resource management in the region.

Managed by the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission, Tower has a controlled spillway type with a width of 110 feet and a maximum discharge capacity of 3320 cubic feet per second. Despite being classified as having a low hazard potential, the risk assessment for Tower indicates a very high risk level. With its intricate design featuring slide and tainter gates, Tower is inspected every three years to ensure its structural integrity and safety.

As a key component of the region's water infrastructure, Tower not only provides renewable energy but also offers recreational opportunities for the community. With its rich history and significance in water resource management, Tower stands as a testament to the importance of sustainable hydroelectric power generation in the face of climate change challenges.

Year Completed

1918

Dam Length

727

Dam Height

29

River Or Stream

Black River

Primary Dam Type

Gravity

Surface Area

102

Hydraulic Height

22

Drainage Area

302

Nid Storage

620

Structural Height

50

Outlet Gates

Slide (sluice gate) - 1, Tainter (radial) - 1

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

50
       
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.