Barton Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Located in Ann Arbor, Michigan, Barton Dam stands as a critical water resource infrastructure responsible for the primary purpose of water supply.


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Summary

Constructed in 1913 and designed by Gardner S. Williams, this earth dam spans a length of 1767 feet and reaches a height of 24 feet, with a hydraulic height of 20.5 feet. The dam's reservoir has a normal storage capacity of 5040 acre-feet and a maximum storage capacity of 7298 acre-feet, serving a drainage area of 728 square miles.

Barton Dam not only ensures water supply but also supports hydropower generation and recreational activities along the Huron River. With a hazard potential rated as high and a risk assessment of 2, the dam's safety measures and regulatory oversight fall under the jurisdiction of the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission. The dam boasts ten Tainter radial gates for water control and has a spillway width of 207 feet. Despite its high risk designation, Barton Dam plays a crucial role in water management within the region.

As a cornerstone of water supply infrastructure in Washtenaw County, Barton Dam symbolizes both the challenges and opportunities presented by managing water resources in a changing climate. Its historical significance, coupled with its ongoing maintenance and risk management efforts, highlight the delicate balance between harnessing water for human needs and protecting communities from potential hazards. For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Barton Dam serves as a focal point for understanding the intersection of infrastructure, environmental stewardship, and public safety in the face of evolving hydrological conditions.

Year Completed

1913

Dam Length

1767

Dam Height

24

River Or Stream

Huron River

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

315

Hydraulic Height

20.5

Drainage Area

728

Nid Storage

7298

Structural Height

34

Outlet Gates

Tainter (radial) - 10

Hazard Potential

High

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

34
       
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.