Taft Road Regional Detention Basin Reservoir Report
Last Updated: February 22, 2026
Located in Novi, Michigan, the Taft Road Regional Detention Basin plays a crucial role in flood risk reduction along the Walled Lk Branch River Rouge.
Summary
Completed in 1990, this earth dam stands at a height of 11 feet and has a hydraulic height of 10.3 feet, with a length of 750 feet. With a maximum storage capacity of 96 acre-feet and a drainage area of 8.2 square miles, this structure helps mitigate potential flooding and protects the surrounding areas.
Managed by the local government and regulated by the Michigan DEGLE, the Taft Road Regional Detention Basin is classified as having a low hazard potential and is deemed to be in satisfactory condition. Inspected every five years, the basin operates with an uncontrolled spillway type and has a maximum discharge capacity of 2250 cubic feet per second. Despite its moderate risk assessment, the structure serves as a critical defense against potential flooding events, showcasing the importance of proper water resource management and infrastructure in climate-vulnerable regions like Michigan.
As a key component in the flood risk reduction strategy for the region, the Taft Road Regional Detention Basin stands as a testament to the collaborative efforts between local governments and regulatory agencies in safeguarding communities from the impacts of extreme weather events. With its satisfactory condition and low hazard potential, this earth dam continues to serve its primary purpose effectively, highlighting the importance of maintaining and inspecting such structures to ensure their continued functionality in mitigating flood risks. For water resource and climate enthusiasts, the Taft Road Regional Detention Basin exemplifies the intersection of infrastructure, environmental stewardship, and community resilience in the face of changing climate dynamics.
°F
°F
mph
Wind
%
Humidity
15-Day Weather Outlook
Year Completed |
1990 |
Dam Length |
750 |
Dam Height |
11 |
River Or Stream |
Walled Lk Branch River Rouge |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Hydraulic Height |
10.3 |
Drainage Area |
8.2 |
Nid Storage |
96 |
Structural Height |
11 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Nid Height |
11 |
Seasonal Comparison
5-Day Hourly Forecast Detail
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Upper River Rouge At Farmington
|
25cfs |
Middle River Rouge At Plymouth
|
40cfs |
Huron River At Milford
|
73cfs |
Huron River Near New Hudson
|
105cfs |
River Rouge At Southfield
|
94cfs |
Middle River Rouge Near Garden City
|
132cfs |
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.
Area Campgrounds
| Location | Reservations | Toilets |
|---|---|---|
Group Use Area
|
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Proud Lake State Rec Area
|
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Group Camp 2
|
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Group Camp 1
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Group Camp 6
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Group Camp 5
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Taft Road Regional Detention Basin
Longwood Court Northville Township