Atles Mill Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: January 12, 2026

Located in Clinton, Michigan, the Atles Mill Dam stands as a pivotal structure on the River Raisin, serving primarily for recreational purposes since its completion in 1914.


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Summary

This private-owned Earth dam boasts a height of 13 feet, with a length of 1580 feet and a storage capacity of 490 acre-feet. Despite its fair condition assessment in 2015, the dam's hazard potential is considered high, prompting a reassessment of risk management measures.

Managed by the Michigan Department of Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy, the Atles Mill Dam is subject to state regulation, inspection, and enforcement, ensuring its compliance with safety standards and protocols. The dam's controlled spillway, with a width of 466 feet, can handle a maximum discharge of 2251 cubic feet per second, mitigating flood risks in the area. The dam's strategic location and critical role in water resource management make it a focal point for climate enthusiasts and conservationists alike, highlighting the importance of sustainable infrastructure development and risk mitigation strategies in the face of changing climate patterns.

Year Completed

1914

Dam Length

1580

Dam Height

13

River Or Stream

River Raisin

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

67

Hydraulic Height

13

Drainage Area

197

Nid Storage

490

Structural Height

13

Hazard Potential

High

Nid Height

13
       
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.