Clifton Mill Pond Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Clifton Mill Pond Dam, also known as Place Dam, is a privately owned structure located in Stony Creek, Michigan.


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Summary

Completed in 1937, this earth dam stands at a height of 12 feet and spans a length of 400 feet, creating a reservoir with a normal storage capacity of 30 acre-feet. The primary purpose of the dam is for recreation, offering visitors a serene setting along the Stony Creek river.

Managed and regulated by the Michigan Department of Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy, the Clifton Mill Pond Dam has a low hazard potential and is currently assessed to be in fair condition. With a maximum discharge capacity of 535 cubic feet per second, the dam features a controlled spillway with a width of 45 feet to manage water flow during peak periods. Despite its age, the dam continues to provide valuable recreational opportunities while ensuring public safety and environmental protection.

Although the risk assessment for Clifton Mill Pond Dam indicates a very high level of risk, appropriate risk management measures are in place to address any potential concerns. Regular inspections are conducted every five years to ensure the structural integrity of the dam, with the last assessment taking place in September 2018. With its scenic location and important role in water resource management, the Clifton Mill Pond Dam remains a key landmark in Macomb County, Michigan for both water resource and climate enthusiasts to appreciate and enjoy.

Year Completed

1937

Dam Length

400

Dam Height

12

River Or Stream

Stony Creek

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

9.8

Hydraulic Height

12

Drainage Area

24.6

Nid Storage

50

Structural Height

12

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

12
       
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.