Smallwood Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: Heil Dam Secord Dam
Last Updated: December 5, 2025
Smallwood Dam, located in Highwood, Michigan, along the Tittabawassee River, stands as a testament to engineering excellence since its completion in 1925 by HOLLAND, ACKERMAN & HOLLAND.
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Summary
This private-owned structure primarily serves as a hydroelectric power source, with a dam height of 36 feet and a length of 612 feet. The dam boasts a storage capacity of 9000 acre-feet and a surface area of 402 acres, providing vital water resources for the region.
With a controlled spillway type and two Tainter (radial) outlet gates, Smallwood Dam is designed to handle a maximum discharge of 10,000 cubic feet per second. Despite its satisfactory condition assessment in 2010, the dam poses a high hazard potential, prompting the need for regular inspections and risk management measures. The risk assessment categorizes the structure as very high risk, underscoring the importance of emergency preparedness and adherence to guidelines for mitigating potential threats.
As a key component of the water infrastructure in Gladwin, Michigan, Smallwood Dam not only contributes to hydroelectric power generation but also plays a crucial role in water storage and management in the region. Its historical significance, combined with its ongoing operational and safety considerations, make it a focal point for water resource and climate enthusiasts looking to understand the intersection of engineering, environmental stewardship, and community resilience in the face of changing climate patterns.
Year Completed |
1925 |
Dam Length |
612 |
Dam Height |
36 |
River Or Stream |
Tittabawassee River |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
402 |
Hydraulic Height |
36 |
Drainage Area |
342 |
Nid Storage |
9000 |
Structural Height |
36 |
Outlet Gates |
Tainter (radial) - 2 |
Hazard Potential |
High |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
36 |
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.
Smallwood Dam