Coppo Dam Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 5, 2025
Coppo Dam, located in Hardwood, Michigan, is a private dam primarily used for recreation on the tributary to the East Branch Sturgeon River.
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Summary
Built in 1967, this earth dam stands at a height of 16 feet with a length of 200 feet, providing a storage capacity of 200 acre-feet and a surface area of 20 acres. Despite its low hazard potential and satisfactory condition assessment, the dam is regulated by the Michigan Department of Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy (DEGLE) to ensure compliance with state safety standards.
With its uncontrolled spillway and moderate risk assessment rating, Coppo Dam is equipped to handle potential emergencies, although details on emergency action plans and risk management measures are not specified in the data. The dam's last inspection in November 2015 deemed it to be in satisfactory condition, with a regular inspection frequency of every 5 years. The dam's location in Dickinson County, Michigan, under the jurisdiction of the state regulatory agency, ensures ongoing oversight and enforcement to maintain the safety and integrity of the structure for both recreational and environmental purposes.
Overall, Coppo Dam serves as a vital recreational resource in the region, offering opportunities for boating, fishing, and other outdoor activities. As a privately owned facility, the dam plays a crucial role in water resource management in the area, providing storage capacity and regulating water flow in the East Branch Sturgeon River. Enthusiasts of water resources and climate monitoring can appreciate the important role that Coppo Dam plays in balancing the needs of recreation with the protection of natural ecosystems in Michigan's picturesque countryside.
Year Completed |
1967 |
Dam Length |
200 |
Dam Height |
16 |
River Or Stream |
Trib to E Br Sturgeon River |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
20 |
Drainage Area |
0.34 |
Nid Storage |
200 |
Structural Height |
16 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Nid Height |
16 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Menominee River At Twin Falls Near Iron Mt
|
3420cfs |
Menominee River Near Florence
|
1050cfs |
Menominee River At Niagara
|
1290cfs |
Menominee River Near Vulcan
|
1530cfs |
Brule River Near Commonwealth
|
408cfs |
Michigamme River Near Crystal Falls
|
452cfs |
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.
Coppo Dam
Pickeral Lake Road Felch Township