Lake Orion Dam, also known as Michigan Central Dam, is a gravity dam located in Lake Orion, Michigan, along the Paint Creek.
Wind
Humidity
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 |
Stony Creek Near Romeo
|
13cfs |
Paint Creek At Rochester
|
18cfs |
Stony Creek Near Washington
|
23cfs |
Clinton River At Auburn Hills
|
122cfs |
East Pond Creek At Romeo
|
19cfs |
Plum Brook At Utica
|
87cfs |
| Location | Reservations | Toilets |
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Pine Grove Campsite
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Chippewa Campsite
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Pines Campsite
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Outpost Campsite
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Cherokee Campsite
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Picnic Area Campsite
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