Lake Orion Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Lake Orion Dam, also known as Michigan Central Dam, is a gravity dam located in Lake Orion, Michigan, along the Paint Creek.


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Summary

Built in 1829, this historic structure stands at 18 feet tall and spans 760 feet in length. With a storage capacity of 3600 acre-feet and a surface area of 470 acres, the dam plays a crucial role in regulating water flow and providing flood control in the region.

Managed by the local government and regulated by the Michigan Department of Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy (DEGLE), Lake Orion Dam is deemed to have a significant hazard potential but maintains a satisfactory condition assessment. The dam's uncontrolled spillway, with a width of 25 feet, is designed to handle a maximum discharge of 1010 cubic feet per second. Despite its age, the dam continues to undergo regular inspections and has an emergency action plan in place to ensure public safety and risk management.

For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Lake Orion Dam serves as a vital infrastructure that not only contributes to the environmental health of the region but also holds historical significance as one of the early engineering marvels in Michigan. With its strategic location on the Paint Creek and its role in water storage and flood mitigation, the dam stands as a testament to the importance of sustainable water management practices in the face of changing climate patterns and increasing water demands.

Year Completed

1829

Dam Length

760

Dam Height

18

River Or Stream

Paint Creek

Primary Dam Type

Gravity

Surface Area

470

Hydraulic Height

16.4

Drainage Area

37

Nid Storage

3600

Structural Height

18

Hazard Potential

Significant

Nid Height

18
       
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.