Waterford Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Waterford Dam, located in Plymouth, Michigan, along the Middle Branch River Rouge, was completed in 1925 and serves primarily as a recreational structure.


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Summary

Standing at a height of 20.5 feet with a hydraulic height of 19 feet, the dam has a storage capacity of 250 acre-feet and covers a surface area of 35 acres. With a drainage area of 53.57 square miles, the dam has a maximum discharge rate of 4845 cubic feet per second.

Despite its high hazard potential, Waterford Dam has been assessed as satisfactory in condition, with the last inspection conducted in September 2018. The dam's spillway is uncontrolled and 120 feet wide, providing an outlet for excess water during times of high flow. While the risk assessment deems the dam to have a moderate risk level, no specific risk management measures have been outlined. With its picturesque location and historical significance, Waterford Dam remains a notable landmark in Wayne County, Michigan, attracting water resource and climate enthusiasts alike.

Year Completed

1925

Dam Length

995

Dam Height

20.5

River Or Stream

Middle Branch River Rouge

Primary Dam Type

Gravity

Surface Area

35

Hydraulic Height

19

Drainage Area

53.57

Nid Storage

250

Structural Height

20.5

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.