Hamilton Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Hamilton Dam, located on the Flint River in Flint, Michigan, serves as a critical water supply structure for the region.


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Summary

Built in 1920, this gravity dam stands at 22 feet tall and stretches 274 feet in length. With a storage capacity of 185 acre-feet and a drainage area of 749 square miles, the dam plays a key role in regulating water flow and ensuring water availability for the surrounding communities.

Despite its age, Hamilton Dam has been maintained in fair condition, with a high hazard potential due to its location and design. The dam features a controlled spillway with a width of 198 feet, capable of handling a maximum discharge of 25,000 cubic feet per second. While the dam has undergone inspections and meets regulatory requirements, there is a need for ongoing risk management measures to address the very high risk associated with the structure.

For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Hamilton Dam represents a historic piece of infrastructure that continues to play a vital role in water supply management. As the region faces challenges related to climate change and changing water patterns, the importance of maintaining and updating structures like Hamilton Dam becomes increasingly evident. With proper risk assessment and management strategies in place, the dam can continue to serve its purpose effectively while safeguarding the surrounding communities from potential hazards.

Year Completed

1920

Dam Length

274

Dam Height

22

River Or Stream

Flint River

Primary Dam Type

Gravity

Surface Area

7

Hydraulic Height

22

Drainage Area

749

Nid Storage

185

Structural Height

22

Hazard Potential

High

Nid Height

22
       
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.