J.R. Whiting Power Plant Dam Reservoir Report
Last Updated: January 12, 2026
The J.R.
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Summary
Whiting Power Plant Dam, located in Monroe, Michigan, serves as a crucial structure on Lake Erie for power generation and water resource management. Completed in 1979, this earth dam stands at a height of 27 feet and spans a length of 5,600 feet, providing a storage capacity of 465 acre-feet. Despite its low hazard potential and moderate risk assessment, the dam's condition remains unrated, suggesting a need for further evaluation and monitoring.
Operated by a private entity, this dam plays a pivotal role in maintaining water levels and regulating flow on Lake Erie. With an uncontrolled spillway and a surface area of 40 acres, the J.R. Whiting Power Plant Dam stands as a testament to engineering ingenuity and environmental stewardship in the region. Its location and design underscore the importance of sustainable water resource management amidst a changing climate landscape.
As water resource and climate enthusiasts continue to monitor the impacts of climate change on water systems, the J.R. Whiting Power Plant Dam stands as a focal point for understanding the intersection of infrastructure, sustainability, and ecological resilience. With its history of service and potential for future adaptation, this dam represents a critical piece of the puzzle in ensuring the long-term health and vitality of water resources in the Great Lakes region.
Year Completed |
1979 |
Dam Length |
5600 |
Dam Height |
27 |
River Or Stream |
Lake Erie |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
40 |
Hydraulic Height |
27 |
Nid Storage |
465 |
Structural Height |
27 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Nid Height |
27 |
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.
J.R. Whiting Power Plant Dam
South Harold Drive 10420, Luna Pier