The most effective way to identify opportunities is through the Michigan Dam Inventory (MDI). This is a live, interactive GIS database that allows you to filter the state’s 2,500+ dams by condition, hazard level, and ownership.
1. Accessing the Interactive Map
You can access the live map here:
- Official EGLE Dam Inventory Map: EGLE Maps & Data Portal
- Instructions: Once on the page, use the Filter tool (left-hand sidebar) to sort for “Condition: Poor” or “Hazard: High.” This will highlight the assets that are under the most regulatory pressure—often the ones owners are most willing to sell or transfer.
2. Using the “Private Opportunity” Filter
To apply your 70/30 crowdfunding model, you are looking for dams currently in Private or Association hands. Publicly owned dams (City/County) are much harder to buy due to government bidding requirements.
Search for these specific indicators on the map:
- Ownership: Private
- Condition Assessment: “Poor” or “Unsatisfactory” (These are “distressed” assets).
- Purpose: “Hydroelectric” or “Recreation” (Recreation dams can often be converted to micro-hydro with the right investment).
3. Strategic Targets for 2026
While Hull Street Energy has claimed the “Big 13” Consumers Energy dams, several other private High-Hazard sites have been flagged as “Aging and Dangerous” in recent state audits:
| Dam Name | County | Owner | Current Status |
|---|---|---|---|
| Impoundment No. 1 | Chippewa | Michigan Limestone | Privately owned; last inspected in 2010. |
| Lake 13 Dam | Clare | Lake 13 Association | Association-owned; recreation focus. |
| Myers-Henderson Pond | Shiawassee | Private/Drain Comm. | Listed |
4. Your Professional “Dam Acquisition” Workflow
If you find a site on the map that looks promising, here is how you move from “Map View” to “Closing”:
- Request the “FOIA” File: Use the dam’s NID ID (found on the map) to request all recent safety orders from EGLE.
- Contact the Owner: Many private owners of “Poor” condition dams are terrified of the liability. An offer to assume the liability via a corporation can often be enough to secure the asset for a nominal price.
- The Pro-Forma: Calculate the cost of the 8% Preferred Return for your investors vs. the projected revenue from a Power Purchase Agreement (PPA).
- Licensing: Determine if the dam is State Regulated (EGLE) or Federal Regulated (FERC). Federal dams have significantly higher reporting costs.
Next Step for You
Now that you have the map and the contacts, would you like me to draft a “Letter of Intent” (LOI) template? You could send this to a private dam owner to express your interest in acquiring their asset for your corporation.