Summary
Completed in 1981, this earth dam stands at a height of 12 feet and has a hydraulic height of 10.5 feet, providing crucial protection for the surrounding area. With a storage capacity of 2,747 acre-feet and a controlled spillway, the dam helps regulate water levels in the Sand River, ensuring both habitat preservation and flood prevention.
Located in Marquette, Michigan, the Sand River Wildlife Flooding Dam is owned and regulated by the state, with regular inspections and enforcement measures in place to maintain its structural integrity. The dam has a low hazard potential and is in satisfactory condition, with a risk assessment rating of Very High (1). Despite its low hazard potential, the dam plays a crucial role in managing water resources in the region, with a maximum discharge capacity of 1,900 cubic feet per second and a drainage area of 28.6 square miles.
The Sand River Wildlife Flooding Dam is a testament to the importance of responsible water resource management in the face of climate change. As a key structure in the Detroit District, this dam not only protects the local ecosystem and communities from flooding but also serves as a model for sustainable infrastructure development in the region. With its controlled spillway and satisfactory condition, the dam stands ready to meet the challenges of a changing climate while preserving the natural beauty of the Sand River area.
Year Completed |
1981 |
Dam Length |
160 |
Dam Height |
12 |
River Or Stream |
Sand River |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
410 |
Hydraulic Height |
10.5 |
Drainage Area |
28.6 |
Nid Storage |
2747 |
Structural Height |
12 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Nid Height |
12 |
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.
Sand River Wildlife Flooding Dam
North Country Trail Onota Township