Pontiac Lake Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Pontiac Lake Dam, located in Oakland County, Michigan, is a privately owned structure that plays a crucial role in managing the waters of the Huron River.


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Summary

Built in 1920, this earth dam stands at a height of 21 feet and stretches over a length of 5750 feet, with a capacity to store up to 7400 acre-feet of water. The dam's primary purpose is classified as "Other," and it serves as an essential resource for maintaining water levels in the area.

Despite its age, Pontiac Lake Dam is regularly inspected and maintained by the Michigan Department of Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy (DEGLE). The dam has a high hazard potential but is currently in fair condition, with a last assessment conducted in November 2019. In case of emergencies, an Emergency Action Plan (EAP) is in place, ensuring that necessary measures can be taken swiftly to mitigate risks and protect surrounding areas. The dam poses a moderate risk, with risk management measures in place to address any potential issues.

Pontiac Lake Dam's role in regulating water flow and storage in the region, coupled with its historical significance and ongoing maintenance efforts, makes it a critical piece of infrastructure for water resource and climate enthusiasts to monitor and appreciate. As part of the Huron River system, this dam serves as a vital component of the local ecosystem, highlighting the importance of responsible management and upkeep to ensure continued water resource sustainability in the area.

Year Completed

1920

Dam Length

5750

Dam Height

21

River Or Stream

Huron River

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

640

Hydraulic Height

21

Drainage Area

20.7

Nid Storage

7400

Structural Height

21

Hazard Potential

High

Nid Height

21
       
Seasonal Comparison

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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.