Prince Lake Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Prince Lake Dam, located in Rochester, Michigan, is a state-regulated earth dam completed in 1963 primarily for recreational purposes.


°F

°F

mph

Wind

%

Humidity

Summary

With a height of 20 feet and a length of 440 feet, the dam provides essential storage of 310 acre-feet of water and covers a surface area of 28 acres. It is situated on a tributary to the West Branch Stony Creek, within the Buffalo District, and is under the jurisdiction of the Michigan Department of Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy (DEGLE).

Despite its low hazard potential and satisfactory condition assessment, Prince Lake Dam poses a moderate risk with a moderate (3) risk assessment rating. The dam features an uncontrolled spillway with a width of 3 feet and a maximum discharge capacity of 54 cubic feet per second. Regular state inspections are conducted every five years to ensure the dam's integrity and safety. The surrounding area, with a drainage area of 1.8 square miles, benefits from the recreational opportunities and water storage provided by the dam for both residents and visitors to enjoy.

In the event of an emergency, the dam's emergency action plan (EAP) status is currently unknown, raising concerns about its preparedness for potential risks. Nevertheless, Prince Lake Dam continues to serve as a vital structure for water resource management and recreational activities in the Oakland County area, under the oversight of the Michigan DEGLE. Enthusiasts of water resources and climate awareness can appreciate the significance of this dam in balancing the needs of both humans and the environment.

Year Completed

1963

Dam Length

440

Dam Height

20

River Or Stream

Trib to W Br Stony Creek

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

28

Hydraulic Height

20.1

Drainage Area

1.8

Nid Storage

310

Structural Height

20

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

20
       
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.