Hamlin Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: Duncan Dam Thompson Dam
Last Updated: December 5, 2025
Located in Clare, Michigan, the Hamlin Dam is a privately owned earth dam completed in 1967 with a primary purpose of fire protection, stock, or small fish pond.
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Summary
Standing at 25 feet tall and stretching 330 feet in length, this dam serves as a vital resource for the surrounding area, providing a normal storage capacity of 32 acre-feet and a surface area of 4 acres. With a low hazard potential and moderate risk assessment, the dam is classified as uncontrolled with a maximum discharge capacity of 250 cubic feet per second.
The Hamlin Dam plays a crucial role in managing water resources in Isabella County, serving as a tributary to the Duncan Drain and contributing to the overall drainage area of 0.3 square miles. Despite not being regulated by the state, the dam is subject to periodic inspections with a frequency of five years to ensure its structural integrity and safety. With a risk management plan in place and emergency action procedures under development, the dam remains a key asset for fire protection and recreational purposes in the region.
Managed by the USDA NRCS, the Hamlin Dam stands as a testament to sustainable water management practices and the importance of private ownership in maintaining critical infrastructure. As a focal point for climate and water resource enthusiasts, this dam exemplifies the balance between human needs and environmental stewardship, showcasing the interconnectedness of water systems and the impact of climate change on our natural landscapes.
Year Completed |
1967 |
Dam Length |
330 |
Dam Height |
25 |
River Or Stream |
Tributary to Duncan Drain |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
4 |
Hydraulic Height |
25 |
Drainage Area |
0.3 |
Nid Storage |
32 |
Structural Height |
25 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Nid Height |
25 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
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 |
|---|---|---|
Pettit Park
|
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Herrick Rec Area
|
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Coldwater Lake Family Park
|
Hamlin Dam
Stevenson Lake Boat Launch