Fenton Water Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Fenton Water Dam, also known as Fenton Mill Pond Dam, is a local government-owned structure located in Fenton, Michigan, along the Shiawassee River.


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Summary

Completed in 1935, this earth dam stands 16 feet tall and stretches 148 feet in length, serving primarily for recreational purposes. With a normal storage capacity of 220 acre-feet and a maximum discharge of 500 cubic feet per second, the dam provides a serene 46-acre pond for residents and visitors to enjoy.

Managed by the Michigan Department of Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy (DEGLE), the Fenton Water Dam is regulated, inspected, and enforced by state authorities to ensure its safety and compliance with regulations. Despite being assessed as in fair condition during the latest inspection in November 2017, the dam poses a significant hazard potential due to its very high risk assessment rating. Emergency action plans are in place, though last revised in 1994, to address any unforeseen events and protect downstream communities in case of a dam failure.

Water resource and climate enthusiasts will find Fenton Water Dam a captivating structure within the picturesque Genesee County landscape. As a vital part of the local ecosystem, this dam not only provides recreational opportunities but also poses important risk management challenges that highlight the importance of maintaining and monitoring our water infrastructure in the face of changing climate conditions.

Year Completed

1935

Dam Length

148

Dam Height

16

River Or Stream

Shiawassee River

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

46

Hydraulic Height

16

Drainage Area

60

Nid Storage

562

Structural Height

16

Hazard Potential

Significant

Nid Height

16
       
Seasonal Comparison

Weather Forecast

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.