Oxford Multi-Lakes Control Structure Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

The Oxford Multi-Lakes Control Structure, also known as the Oxford Multi-Lakes Dam, is a privately owned dam located in Lake Orion, Michigan.


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Summary

This structure is crucial for controlling water levels and ensuring the proper management of the North Branch Paint Creek. Completed in 1975, the dam stands at a height of 12 feet and has a length of 180 feet, offering a maximum storage capacity of 1175 acre-feet and a normal storage capacity of 650 acre-feet.

With a primary purpose of recreation, the Oxford Multi-Lakes Control Structure plays a significant role in providing water-based recreational opportunities for the local community. The dam features a controlled spillway with a width of 15 feet, ensuring water flow control during periods of high discharge. Despite being classified with a low hazard potential and satisfactory condition assessment, the structure is subject to regular inspections to maintain its safety and functionality.

Managed by the Michigan Department of Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy (DEGLE), the Oxford Multi-Lakes Control Structure poses a very high risk due to its critical role in maintaining water levels and ensuring public safety. As a vital component of the local water resource management system, this dam underscores the importance of proper monitoring, maintenance, and risk management measures to mitigate potential hazards and safeguard the surrounding communities from any adverse impacts.

Year Completed

1975

Dam Length

180

Dam Height

12

River Or Stream

North Branch Paint Creek

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

76

Hydraulic Height

12

Nid Storage

1175

Structural Height

12

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

12
       
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.