Summary
Standing at a height of 15 feet with a hydraulic height of 13 feet, the dam holds a maximum storage capacity of 73 acre-feet and a normal storage capacity of 50 acre-feet. The dam overlooks an unnamed tributary to Lake Huron and covers a surface area of 11.6 acres with a drainage area of 0.02 square miles.
Managed by the Michigan Department of Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy (DEGLE), Vander Graaff Dam has a low hazard potential and is rated as not being in a condition of concern. Despite its moderate risk assessment, the dam does not have an Emergency Action Plan (EAP) in place and lacks updated emergency contacts. With an uncontrolled spillway type and a spillway width of 26 feet, the dam maintains a moderate risk management approach with no specific risk management measures identified.
Although Vander Graaff Dam has not been rated for its condition assessment, it is subject to regular state inspections, permitting, and enforcement. With its picturesque location and recreational focus, the dam provides a serene environment for visitors and water enthusiasts to enjoy. As a vital part of the water infrastructure in the region, the dam showcases the importance of responsible management and maintenance of water resources in the face of changing climate conditions.
Dam Height |
15 |
River Or Stream |
Unnamed Trib to Lake Huron |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
11.6 |
Hydraulic Height |
13 |
Drainage Area |
0.02 |
Nid Storage |
73 |
Structural Height |
15 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Nid Height |
15 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Black River Near Jeddo
|
384cfs |
Mill Creek Near Avoca
|
837cfs |
Belle River At Memphis
|
310cfs |
Pigeon R Near Caseville
|
64cfs |
South Branch Flint River Near Columbiaville
|
409cfs |
Farmers Creek Near Lapeer
|
65cfs |
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.
Vander Graaff Dam