Chalk Hill Reservoir Report
Nearby: Chalk Hills White Rapids
Last Updated: December 5, 2025
Chalk Hill is a concrete hydroelectric dam located on the Menominee River in Marinette, Michigan.
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Summary
Built in 1927 by Holland Ackerman & Holland, this structure serves as both a source of renewable energy and a recreational area. Standing at a height of 41.3 feet and a length of 1936 feet, Chalk Hill plays a crucial role in water resource management within the region, with a maximum storage capacity of 8120 acre-feet and a drainage area of 3220 square miles.
Managed by the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission, Chalk Hill is considered to have a high hazard potential due to its structural design and location. With a controlled spillway width of 264 feet and 11 Tainter (radial) outlet gates, the dam is equipped to handle a maximum discharge of 80,000 cubic feet per second. Despite its age, the dam's risk assessment remains at a very high level, indicating the importance of regular inspections and maintenance to ensure the safety and efficiency of its operations for both water resource management and local communities.
As a focal point for water resource and climate enthusiasts, Chalk Hill serves as a testament to the intersection of human engineering and environmental stewardship. Its role in providing clean energy, recreational opportunities, and flood control highlights the complex balance required in managing water resources in a sustainable and responsible manner. With ongoing risk assessments and regulatory oversight, Chalk Hill stands as a vital piece of infrastructure in the region's efforts to adapt to changing climate conditions and ensure the resilience of its water systems for future generations.
Year Completed |
1927 |
Dam Length |
1936 |
Dam Height |
41.3 |
River Or Stream |
Menominee River |
Primary Dam Type |
Concrete |
Surface Area |
882 |
Hydraulic Height |
40.3 |
Drainage Area |
3220 |
Nid Storage |
8120 |
Structural Height |
48 |
Outlet Gates |
Tainter (radial) - 11 |
Hazard Potential |
High |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
48 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Menominee River At White Rapids Dam Near Banat
|
1200cfs |
Menominee River Below Pemene Creek Near Pembine
|
1640cfs |
Pike River At Amberg
|
186cfs |
Menominee River At Koss
|
1920cfs |
Menominee River Near Mc Allister
|
2220cfs |
Menominee River Near Vulcan
|
1530cfs |
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.
Chalk Hill
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