Black River Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: Mcdonald Lake Dam Shea
Last Updated: December 5, 2025
Black River Dam in Ramsay, Michigan, is a state-regulated structure located on the Black River, boasting a low hazard potential and satisfactory condition assessment.
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Summary
Completed in 1947, this earth dam stands at a height of 15 feet with a hydraulic height of 13 feet, serving primarily for recreation purposes. With a normal storage capacity of 480 acre-feet and a maximum discharge of 570 cubic feet per second, the dam covers a surface area of 110 acres and has a drainage area of 8.9 square miles.
Managed by the Michigan Department of Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy (DEGLE), Black River Dam offers controlled spillway features with a width of 45 feet and a spillway discharge capacity of 660 acre-feet. The dam's risk assessment is classified as very high, emphasizing the importance of regular inspections and maintenance to ensure public safety. With the surrounding area designated for recreational use, including fishing, boating, and wildlife observation, Black River Dam plays a vital role in water resource management and climate resilience efforts in Gogebic County.
As a significant water infrastructure within the St. Paul District of the US Army Corps of Engineers, Black River Dam continues to be a key asset in the region's flood control and water supply strategies. With a strong emphasis on safety and risk management, the dam's satisfactory condition assessment underscores the commitment to ensuring its structural integrity and operational effectiveness in the face of evolving climate challenges. Water resource and climate enthusiasts alike can appreciate the critical role that Black River Dam plays in maintaining a balance between human recreational activities and environmental conservation efforts in Michigan's waterways.
Year Completed |
1947 |
Dam Length |
150 |
Dam Height |
15 |
River Or Stream |
Black River |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
110 |
Hydraulic Height |
13 |
Drainage Area |
8.9 |
Nid Storage |
660 |
Structural Height |
15 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Nid Height |
15 |
Seasonal Comparison
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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.
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