Addison Mill Pond Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Addison Mill Pond Dam, located in Addison, Michigan, is a local government-owned structure that serves the primary purpose of recreation.


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Summary

Built in 1837, this Earth-type dam stands at a height of 24.5 feet and has a hydraulic height of 25 feet, with a length of 225 feet. The dam's reservoir has a normal storage capacity of 96 acre-feet and covers a surface area of 50 acres, with a drainage area of 16.2 square miles.

The dam poses a high hazard potential and has been assessed to be in fair condition as of the last inspection in July 2019. Despite its age, the dam continues to provide recreational opportunities and contributes to the overall water resource management in the area. With its location on Bean Creek and its historical significance dating back over a century, Addison Mill Pond Dam remains a notable feature for water resource and climate enthusiasts interested in the region's infrastructure and environmental impact.

Although the dam is regulated by the Michigan Department of Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy, ongoing inspections and enforcement ensure its safety and compliance with state regulations. The risk assessment for the dam is categorized as moderate, indicating a need for continued monitoring and potential risk management measures to maintain its structural integrity and safeguard against any potential hazards. Overall, Addison Mill Pond Dam stands as a historic landmark that plays a vital role in both water resource management and recreational activities in Lenawee County, Michigan.

Year Completed

1837

Dam Length

225

Dam Height

24.5

River Or Stream

Bean Creek

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

50

Hydraulic Height

25

Drainage Area

16.2

Nid Storage

180

Structural Height

24.5

Hazard Potential

High

Nid Height

25
       
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.