Baker Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Baker Dam, located in Dexter, Michigan, along Mill Creek, was completed in 1840 for the primary purpose of recreation.


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Summary

This private dam, with a height of 15.5 feet and hydraulic height of 13.5 feet, serves as a popular spot for water resource and climate enthusiasts to enjoy outdoor activities. With a normal storage capacity of 34 acre-feet and a surface area of 10 acres, Baker Dam offers a serene environment for visitors to appreciate the beauty of nature.

Despite its age, Baker Dam has a low hazard potential and is currently in a not rated condition assessment. The dam, regulated by the Michigan DEGLE, undergoes state inspection and enforcement to ensure its safety. While the dam does not have a spillway, its risk potential is considered high, emphasizing the importance of continued monitoring and maintenance to mitigate any potential risks associated with the structure. Overall, Baker Dam provides a valuable recreational resource for the community while also serving as a significant piece of Michigan's water infrastructure.

With its historical significance dating back to the 19th century, Baker Dam stands as a testament to human ingenuity in harnessing natural resources for recreational purposes. As water enthusiasts explore this area, they can appreciate the balance between human intervention and environmental preservation. The dam's location in Washtenaw County, Michigan, showcases the harmonious coexistence of water management and ecological sustainability, making it a must-visit destination for those interested in the intersection of water resources and climate resilience.

Year Completed

1840

Dam Height

15.5

River Or Stream

Mill Creek

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

10

Hydraulic Height

13.5

Drainage Area

5.7

Nid Storage

88

Structural Height

15.5

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

16
       
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.