Milan Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: Ella Lee Lake Dam Macon River Dam
Last Updated: January 12, 2026
Milan Dam, also known as Wabash Dam, is a gravity dam located in Milan, Michigan, on the Saline River.
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Summary
Built in 1937, the dam serves primarily for recreational purposes, offering a serene setting for water resource and climate enthusiasts to enjoy. The dam stands at 18 feet high with a hydraulic height of 18.9 feet, spanning a length of 900 feet and holding a maximum storage capacity of 850 acre-feet.
Managed by the local government, Milan Dam is regulated, permitted, inspected, and enforced by the Michigan Department of Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy (DEGLE). Despite its significant hazard potential, the dam is currently in satisfactory condition, last assessed in August 2019. With a moderate risk assessment rating of 3, the dam has not experienced any major modifications or emergency action plans in recent years. Its uncontrolled spillway, measuring 60 feet in width, helps regulate water flow and prevent overflow during peak discharge events.
For water enthusiasts seeking a picturesque spot for recreation and exploration, Milan Dam on the Saline River in Michigan offers a unique blend of natural beauty and structural engineering. With its historic significance, well-maintained condition, and regulated operation, the dam provides a safe environment for visitors to appreciate and learn about the intersection of water resources and climate resilience in the region.
Year Completed |
1937 |
Dam Length |
900 |
Dam Height |
18 |
River Or Stream |
Saline River |
Primary Dam Type |
Gravity |
Surface Area |
59 |
Hydraulic Height |
18.9 |
Drainage Area |
112 |
Nid Storage |
850 |
Structural Height |
18 |
Hazard Potential |
Significant |
Nid Height |
19 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Saline River Near Saline
|
38cfs |
River Raisin Near Monroe
|
526cfs |
Malletts Creek At Ann Arbor
|
5cfs |
Huron River At Ann Arbor
|
579cfs |
Mill Creek Near Dexter
|
77cfs |
River Raisin Near Adrian
|
242cfs |
Dam Data Reference
Condition Assessment
SatisfactoryNo 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
HighDams 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.
Milan Dam