Pontiac Motor Division Detention Basin Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

The Pontiac Motor Division Detention Basin in Pontiac, Michigan, serves as a crucial flood risk reduction structure along the Montcalm Storm Sewer.


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Summary

Completed in 1982, this privately owned basin boasts a height of 12 feet and a storage capacity of 10 acre-feet. With a surface area of 1 acre and a drainage area of 6.5 square miles, this controlled spillway structure plays a vital role in managing stormwater runoff and reducing the risk of flooding in the surrounding area.

Despite its significant hazard potential, the condition of the Pontiac Motor Division Detention Basin has not been rated, highlighting the need for regular inspections and maintenance. The basin's emergency action plan status and risk management measures remain unspecified, raising questions about its preparedness for potential emergencies. With a very high risk assessment level, stakeholders and water resource enthusiasts should closely monitor developments related to this critical flood risk reduction infrastructure to ensure its continued effectiveness in protecting the community from inundation events.

Year Completed

1982

Dam Height

12

River Or Stream

Montcalm Storm Sewer

Primary Dam Type

Other

Surface Area

1

Hydraulic Height

12

Drainage Area

6.5

Nid Storage

10

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.