Big Quinnesec Falls Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Big Quinnesec Falls, located in Michigan along the Menominee River, is a captivating hydroelectric structure with a rich history dating back to its completion in 1949.


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Summary

Designed by Meade & Hunt, this concrete dam stands at an impressive height of 77 feet, with a hydraulic height of 92 feet and a structural height of 32 feet. Boasting a multi-arch core design and supported by rock and soil foundations, the dam serves a primary purpose of hydroelectric power generation, while also offering recreational opportunities to visitors.

With a storage capacity of 3,790 acre-feet and a drainage area of 2,475 square miles, Big Quinnesec Falls is a significant structure in the region, capable of discharging up to 39,347 cubic feet per second through its controlled spillway. The dam's hazard potential is deemed high, reflecting the importance of regular inspections and maintenance. Despite its age, the condition assessment of the dam is currently not available, highlighting the need for continued monitoring and risk assessment to ensure the safety and reliability of this key water resource infrastructure.

Managed by the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission, Big Quinnesec Falls represents a critical piece of the region's hydroelectric infrastructure, contributing to both energy production and water management efforts. As a popular destination for both hydro enthusiasts and outdoor recreation enthusiasts, this impressive dam showcases the intersection of engineering ingenuity, environmental stewardship, and sustainable resource utilization along the Menominee River.

Year Completed

1949

Dam Length

530

Dam Height

77

River Or Stream

Menominee River

Primary Dam Type

Concrete

Surface Area

272

Hydraulic Height

92

Drainage Area

2475

Nid Storage

3790

Structural Height

32

Outlet Gates

Slide (sluice gate) - 2, Tainter (radial) - 7

Hazard Potential

High

Foundations

Rock, Soil

Nid Height

92
       
Seasonal Comparison

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Dam Data Reference

Condition Assessment

Satisfactory
No 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

High
Dams 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.