Secord Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: Frayer Dam Baker Dam
Last Updated: December 5, 2025
Secord Dam, located in White Star, Michigan, on the Tittabawassee River, is a privately owned structure primarily used for hydroelectric power generation.
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Summary
Built in 1925 by the design firm Holland, Ackerman & Holland, this earth dam stands at a height of 57 feet and stretches 1100 feet in length. With a storage capacity of 51,000 acre-feet and a drainage area of 210 square miles, Secord Dam plays a crucial role in regulating water flow and providing renewable energy to the region.
Despite its importance, Secord Dam has a high hazard potential and is currently rated as being in poor condition. The last inspection in May 2010 revealed deficiencies, prompting concerns about its structural integrity. Emergency action plans have been updated as recently as June 2018, but the risk assessment remains at a very high level. With a controlled spillway and two Tainter gates for water release, the dam's operation and maintenance require close monitoring to ensure public safety and environmental protection.
As a key feature within the Detroit District of the US Army Corps of Engineers, Secord Dam serves as a critical piece of infrastructure for water resource management in Gladwin County, Michigan. As water resource and climate enthusiasts, it is vital to recognize the importance of maintaining and improving the condition of dams like Secord to ensure their long-term sustainability and resilience in the face of changing environmental conditions. Ongoing efforts to address the dam's deficiencies and mitigate risks are essential for safeguarding both the local community and the surrounding ecosystem.
Year Completed |
1925 |
Dam Length |
1100 |
Dam Height |
57 |
River Or Stream |
Tittabawassee River |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
894 |
Hydraulic Height |
57 |
Drainage Area |
210 |
Nid Storage |
51000 |
Structural Height |
57 |
Outlet Gates |
Tainter (radial) - 2 |
Hazard Potential |
High |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
57 |
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.
Secord Dam