Waterloo Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: January 11, 2026

Waterloo Dam, located in Monroe, Michigan, on the River Raisin, stands as a testament to the importance of water resource management for recreational purposes.


°F

°F

mph

Wind

%

Humidity

Summary

Completed in 1977, this gravity dam boasts a height of 12 feet and a length of 420 feet. With a maximum storage capacity of 768 acre-feet and a normal storage capacity of 140 acre-feet, the dam serves as a vital resource for the local community.

Managed by the local government and regulated by the Michigan Department of Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy, Waterloo Dam plays a crucial role in flood control and water storage in the region. Despite being classified as having significant hazard potential, the dam's condition is assessed as satisfactory, ensuring its continued functionality and safety for the surrounding area. Additionally, with a spillway width of 420 feet and a maximum discharge capacity of 16,500 cubic feet per second, Waterloo Dam is well-equipped to handle potential emergencies.

For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Waterloo Dam serves as a prime example of effective infrastructure management in the face of changing environmental conditions. As a key player in water regulation and flood control along the River Raisin, this dam stands as a critical piece of the puzzle in ensuring water security and safety for the community of Monroe. With its impressive storage capacity, structural integrity, and regulatory oversight, Waterloo Dam remains a vital asset for maintaining a sustainable water supply and protecting against potential hazards in the region.

Year Completed

1977

Dam Length

420

Dam Height

12

River Or Stream

River Raisin

Primary Dam Type

Gravity

Surface Area

29

Hydraulic Height

12

Drainage Area

1059

Nid Storage

768

Structural Height

12

Hazard Potential

Significant

Nid Height

12
       
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.