Albion Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Albion Dam, also known as Dutchtown, is a gravity dam located in Albion, Michigan, along the South Branch Kalamazoo River.


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Summary

Built in 1856 for recreational purposes, this historic structure stands at a height of 11 feet and spans 150 feet in length. With a storage capacity of 941 acre-feet and a surface area of 42 acres, the dam plays a significant role in managing water resources in the Calhoun County area.

Despite its age and historical significance, Albion Dam has been rated as having a poor condition assessment with a significant hazard potential. The dam is regulated by the Michigan Department of Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy (DEGLE) and undergoes regular state inspections to ensure public safety. With a maximum discharge capacity of 530 cubic feet per second, the controlled spillway width of 99 feet helps mitigate flood risks in the surrounding area.

As water resource and climate enthusiasts explore the Albion Dam, they can appreciate its role in providing recreational opportunities while also recognizing the need for ongoing maintenance and risk management measures. With its very high risk assessment ranking, efforts to improve the dam's condition and emergency preparedness are crucial to safeguarding the community and environment from potential hazards.

Year Completed

1856

Dam Length

150

Dam Height

11

River Or Stream

South Branch Kalamazoo River

Primary Dam Type

Gravity

Surface Area

42

Hydraulic Height

11

Drainage Area

152.98

Nid Storage

941

Structural Height

11

Hazard Potential

Significant

Nid Height

11
       
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.