Cedarville Operation Tailings Basin Dam Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 26, 2025
Located in Mackinac, Michigan, the Cedarville Operation Tailings Basin Dam is a privately owned structure regulated by the Michigan Department of Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy (DEGLE).
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Summary
This earth dam, standing at a height of 10 feet and primarily used for tailings, holds a storage capacity of 373 acre-feet with a surface area of 80 acres. The dam poses a high hazard potential but is currently in satisfactory condition, last inspected in August 2019.
Situated near Lake Huron, this dam plays a crucial role in managing tailings and water resources in the region. With a spillway type classified as uncontrolled, the Cedarville Operation Tailings Basin Dam requires frequent inspections every three years to ensure its safety and integrity. Despite its moderate risk assessment level, the dam's operation and maintenance are vital for preventing any potential hazards and protecting the surrounding environment.
As water resource and climate enthusiasts, understanding the significance of structures like the Cedarville Operation Tailings Basin Dam is essential for safeguarding our natural ecosystems. With its regulated status, high hazard potential, and satisfactory condition, this dam serves as a key player in water management efforts in Michigan, highlighting the importance of ongoing monitoring and risk mitigation strategies to ensure the safety and sustainability of our water resources.
Dam Height |
10 |
River Or Stream |
trib to Lake Huron |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
80 |
Hydraulic Height |
10 |
Nid Storage |
373 |
Structural Height |
10 |
Hazard Potential |
High |
Nid Height |
10 |
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.
Cedarville Operation Tailings Basin Dam