St Louis Reservoir Report
Nearby: State Street Dam Lake Camelot Dam
Last Updated: December 5, 2025
Located in St Louis, Michigan, the St Louis Dam stands as a pivotal structure in the region, generating hydroelectric power through its gravity-based design.
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Summary
Constructed in 1901 by designers MC MEE, PORTER & SLEELEX, the dam boasts a height of 21 feet and a structural height of 14 feet, with a capacity to store 1575 acre-feet of water. The dam's primary purpose is hydroelectric, serving as a vital source of renewable energy for the area.
With a significant hazard potential and a very high risk assessment rating, the St Louis Dam is closely monitored by the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission. The dam's controlled spillway and six Tainter radial gates ensure effective water management, with a maximum discharge capacity of 7200 cubic feet per second. Despite its age, the dam continues to play a crucial role in water resource management and climate resilience efforts in the region.
The St Louis Dam's location on Pine Creek in Gratiot County, Michigan, not only highlights its historical significance but also underscores its importance in safeguarding water resources and supporting sustainable energy practices. As climate change continues to impact water systems, structures like the St Louis Dam serve as essential components in mitigating risks and ensuring the stability of water supplies for both current and future generations.
Year Completed |
1901 |
Dam Length |
126 |
Dam Height |
21 |
River Or Stream |
Pine Creek |
Primary Dam Type |
Gravity |
Surface Area |
225 |
Hydraulic Height |
12.5 |
Drainage Area |
288 |
Nid Storage |
1575 |
Structural Height |
14 |
Outlet Gates |
Tainter (radial) - 6 |
Hazard Potential |
Significant |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
21 |
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.
St Louis