DNR Enhances Cheboygan Dam Pumps Ahead of Forecasted Rain
State natural resources crews intensified efforts at the Cheboygan Lock and Dam over the weekend. The DNR moved additional pumps as forecasted rain approached for the northern Lower Peninsula.
Operational steps taken
Teams activated five pumps to reroute water around the dam complex. Two pumps were running Friday and three more were added by Saturday night.
The pumps transfer water from behind the dam to the spillway ahead of the structure. All DNR-managed dam gates are fully open to maximize flow capacity.
Equipment and site changes
Crews removed an old wooden debris screen at Gate No. 6 after confirming it posed no risk. The removal is expected to allow additional outflow and reduce water behind the dam.
About 2,000 sandbags are positioned as a protective buffer and channeling measure. The U.S. Geological Survey added monitoring instruments to track water levels more closely.
Coordination and capacity options
DNR officials are seeking more pumps and working with the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission. They are evaluating options to restart a hydroelectric station to increase discharge capacity.
Some flow is already passing through bypass valves on the hydro portion. Officials say restoring electrical generation could move significantly more water.
Water levels and public-alert thresholds
Governor Gretchen Whitmer declared a state of emergency Friday as river levels climbed near the dam crest. At that time, the river stood about 18 inches below the dam top.
Officials reported the level within 15 inches of the crest by Sunday afternoon. Rain and snowmelt from upstream, plus thawing ice in upstream lakes, contributed to the rise.
Evacuation guidance
Authorities outlined a three-step public safety approach: ready, set, go. Residents should plan, prepare and evacuate based on defined water-level triggers.
“Ready” begins when levels are 12 inches below the crest with a documented rise of about 3 inches per day. “Set” applies at 6 inches with continued rapid rise or a prediction the dam will top within 48 hours. “Go” is declared at 1 inch below the crest, when topping and possible dam failure are likely.
Weather outlook
The National Weather Service in Gaylord reported lighter rain in Cheboygan since Saturday night. Heavier precipitation fell farther south around Charlevoix and Gaylord.
Forecasters expected a brief break Sunday evening before more rain late Monday night into Tuesday. Total rainfall amounts in the dam’s watershed could reach about 2 inches over coming days.
Risks and public messaging
Officials warned high water can erode banks and sweep people or objects away in fast currents. The emergency declaration frees state resources for response and recovery work.
DNR communicators urged residents to sign up for Be Alert notices or call 211 for updates. Filmogaz.com will continue to follow developments and report new information as it becomes available.
