Clarkston Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Clarkston Dam, also known as Clarkston Mill Pond Dam, is a private dam located in Clarkston, Michigan, along the Clinton River.


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Summary

Built in 1900, the earth and gravity dam stands at a height of 34 feet and stretches 214 feet in length, serving primarily for recreational purposes. With a storage capacity of 90 acre-feet and a drainage area of 12.3 square miles, the dam poses a high hazard potential but was deemed to be in satisfactory condition during its last inspection in September 2020.

Managed by the Michigan Department of Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy (EGLE), the dam is equipped with an uncontrolled spillway and has a maximum discharge capacity of 80 cubic feet per second. Despite its moderate risk assessment rating, the dam has undergone regular inspections every three years to ensure its structural integrity and safety. Recognized as a key feature along the Clinton River, Clarkston Dam plays a vital role in regulating water levels and enhancing the recreational opportunities in the area.

With its historical significance and ecological impact on the surrounding environment, Clarkston Dam serves as a focal point for water resource and climate enthusiasts. As efforts continue to maintain and monitor the dam's condition, it remains a crucial structure in the region, balancing the need for flood control and recreational enjoyment along the scenic Clinton River.

Year Completed

1900

Dam Length

214

Dam Height

34

River Or Stream

Clinton River

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

10

Hydraulic Height

34

Drainage Area

12.3

Nid Storage

90

Structural Height

34

Hazard Potential

High

Nid Height

34
       
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.