Norvell Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Norvell Dam, also known as Norvell Mill Pond, is a privately owned structure located in Norvell, Michigan, along the River Raisin.


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Summary

Constructed in 1839, this Earth type dam stands at a height of 13 feet and has a length of 330 feet. Its primary purpose is for recreation, offering a surface area of 156 acres and a normal storage capacity of 400 acre-feet.

Managed by the Michigan Department of Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy (DEGLE), Norvell Dam is regulated, permitted, inspected, and enforced by the state to ensure its safe operation. Despite being classified as having a low hazard potential, the dam is rated as having a very high risk due to its age and condition. The last inspection in 2016 deemed the dam's condition as satisfactory, with a scheduled inspection frequency of every 5 years.

While Norvell Dam provides recreational opportunities for visitors, its historical significance and environmental impact on the River Raisin watershed make it a vital structure for water resource and climate enthusiasts. With ongoing risk assessments and management measures in place, the dam continues to play a role in the local ecosystem and community as a beloved landmark along the river.

Year Completed

1839

Dam Length

330

Dam Height

13

River Or Stream

River Raisin

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

156

Hydraulic Height

13

Drainage Area

92

Nid Storage

570

Structural Height

13

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

13
       
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.