Michigan Limestone Tailings Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: Clymers Basin Dam Trout Creek Dam
Last Updated: January 12, 2026
The Michigan Limestone Tailings Dam, located in Presque Isle, Michigan, was completed in 1969 and serves primarily for the storage of tailings.
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Summary
This privately owned earth dam stands at a height of 50 feet with a hydraulic height of 45 feet, offering a storage capacity of 6,800 acre-feet and a surface area of 340 acres. Despite its low hazard potential, the dam is regulated by the Michigan Department of Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy (DEGLE), with regular state inspections and enforcement ensuring its safety and compliance.
Situated in a picturesque setting near Lake Huron, the Michigan Limestone Tailings Dam is subject to a moderate risk assessment, indicating a level 3 risk. While the dam has not been rated in terms of its condition, emergency action plans and guidelines have not been prepared or updated for this structure. With no associated structures or federal involvement, the dam's operational oversight falls solely under the state jurisdiction, emphasizing the importance of state regulatory agencies in ensuring the dam's integrity and safety for the surrounding community and environment.
With its uncontrolled spillway type and moderate risk assessment, the Michigan Limestone Tailings Dam stands as a key structure in the region's water resource management. As climate change impacts continue to affect water resources, the dam's role in storage and regulation becomes increasingly vital. As enthusiasts of water resources and climate, monitoring and understanding the management of structures like the Michigan Limestone Tailings Dam is crucial for sustainable water resource practices in Michigan and beyond.
Year Completed |
1969 |
Dam Height |
50 |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
340 |
Hydraulic Height |
45 |
Drainage Area |
0.53 |
Nid Storage |
6800 |
Structural Height |
50 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Nid Height |
50 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Thunder Bay River At Herron Road Near Bolton
|
365cfs |
Pigeon R At Sturgeon Valley Rd Near Vanderbilt
|
98cfs |
Sturgeon River At Wolverine
|
282cfs |
Au Sable River At Mio
|
1230cfs |
Au Sable River Near Mc Kinley
|
1450cfs |
Au Sable River Near Red Oak
|
1110cfs |
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.
Michigan Limestone Tailings Dam