Edison Sault Power Canal


The Edison Sault Power Canal supplies the Saint Marys Falls Hydropower Plant, a Cloverland Electric Cooperative hydroelectric plant, in Sault Ste. Marie, Michigan. Excavation of the power canal began in September 1898 and was completed in June 1902. The canal and hydroelectric complex were named a Historic Civil Engineering Landmark in 1983.

Physical features

The length of the canal from the headgates to the power house is approximately. The canal varies in width from at water level and is approximately in depth. The water velocity varies for various reasons but, at times, it can be up to. The entrance to the canal is located at the eastern end of Ashmun Bay and is controlled by four steel headgates. The upper quarter of the canal was excavated from rock while the remainder was dug into the earth and given a timber lining. The canal is designed to carry of water per second.