Kleber Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Kleber is a gravity dam located on the Black River in Cheboygan, Michigan, with a primary purpose of hydroelectric power generation.


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Summary

Built in 1948 by Stanley Engineering, this dam stands at 46 feet in height and has a hydraulic height of 44 feet, with a capacity to store 3000 acre-feet of water. The dam's spillway type is controlled, with a spillway width of 30 feet and a maximum discharge of 14,300 cubic feet per second.

Despite being classified with a low hazard potential, Kleber has a very high risk assessment rating of 1, indicating the need for careful risk management. The dam has not undergone a recent condition assessment, but emergency action plans have been prepared and updated periodically to ensure public safety. In terms of regulatory oversight, the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission is responsible for inspections and enforcement at this facility.

Overall, Kleber dam represents a key infrastructure asset in Michigan's water resource management system, providing both hydroelectric power and recreational opportunities. Its historical significance, engineering design, and risk profile make it a fascinating subject for water resource and climate enthusiasts to study and engage with.

Year Completed

1948

Dam Length

535

Dam Height

46

River Or Stream

Black River

Primary Dam Type

Gravity

Surface Area

295

Hydraulic Height

44

Drainage Area

313

Nid Storage

3000

Structural Height

46

Outlet Gates

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

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

46
       
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.