Shiawassee Flats Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: Pool Four Langshwager Tract Pool Two
Last Updated: December 5, 2025
Situated in Saginaw, Michigan, the Shiawassee Flats Dam stands as a vital structure along the Shiawassee River, serving primarily for recreational purposes since its completion in 1964.
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Summary
With a height of 12 feet and a length spanning 15,000 feet, the dam boasts a storage capacity of 9,100 acre-feet and a surface area of 1,600 acres. Despite a low hazard potential and fair condition assessment, the dam is subject to regular state inspection, permitting, and enforcement by the Michigan Department of Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy (DEGLE).
Maintaining a controlled spillway with a width of 40 feet, the Shiawassee Flats Dam ensures a maximum discharge of 8,000 cubic feet per second to manage water levels and prevent flooding downstream. Although not federally owned or funded, the dam's strategic location in the Buffalo District plays a crucial role in safeguarding the surrounding area from potential risks. With State jurisdiction and regulatory oversight, this dam exemplifies the collaborative efforts between local and state agencies in mitigating water resource challenges and climate-related threats in the region.
Despite its age, the Shiawassee Flats Dam continues to fulfill its essential role in providing recreational opportunities while safeguarding against potential hazards. With a risk assessment indicating a very high level of risk, ongoing monitoring and maintenance efforts are imperative to ensure the long-term resilience and safety of this critical water infrastructure. As climate change intensifies, the Shiawassee Flats Dam stands as a testament to the proactive measures taken to protect water resources and communities in the face of evolving environmental challenges.
Year Completed |
1964 |
Dam Length |
15000 |
Dam Height |
12 |
River Or Stream |
Shiawassee River |
Surface Area |
1600 |
Hydraulic Height |
12 |
Drainage Area |
626 |
Nid Storage |
9100 |
Structural Height |
12 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Nid Height |
12 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Flint River Near Fosters
|
330cfs |
Saginaw River At Saginaw
|
0cfs |
Cass River At Frankenmuth
|
87cfs |
Tittabawassee River At Midland
|
616cfs |
Shiawassee River At Owosso
|
199cfs |
Pine River Near Midland
|
51cfs |
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.
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