Summary
Built in 1941, this concrete dam stands at a height of 20 feet and spans a length of 184 feet along the Willow Run River. Its primary purpose is for recreation, offering opportunities for activities like fishing, boating, and wildlife observation in the surrounding area.
With a normal storage capacity of 47 acre-feet and a maximum discharge of 930 cubic feet per second, Willow Run Hydro Dam plays a significant role in managing water resources in the region. Despite its low hazard potential and fair condition assessment, the dam is regularly inspected and regulated by the Michigan Department of Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy (DEGLE), ensuring its structural integrity and overall safety for the community.
The dam's location within Washtenaw County, Michigan, under the supervision of the Buffalo District of the US Army Corps of Engineers, highlights its importance in both water resource management and recreational activities. As climate change continues to impact water availability and quality, structures like Willow Run Hydro Dam serve as essential assets in maintaining a balance between human needs and environmental sustainability in the region.
Year Completed |
1941 |
Dam Length |
184 |
Dam Height |
20 |
River Or Stream |
Willow Run |
Primary Dam Type |
Concrete |
Surface Area |
8.5 |
Hydraulic Height |
20 |
Drainage Area |
3.8 |
Nid Storage |
79 |
Structural Height |
20 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Nid Height |
20 |
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.
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