Gibson Drain Detention Dam Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 25, 2025
Situated in Sterling Heights, Michigan, the Gibson Drain Detention Dam serves as a crucial water resource management structure along the Gibson Drain.
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Summary
Owned and regulated by the local government, this dam plays a key role in flood control efforts in the area. With a height of 9 feet and a storage capacity of 112 acre-feet, the dam offers essential protection to the surrounding community, particularly during periods of high water flow.
Despite its low hazard potential, the dam is deemed to have a high risk due to its condition assessment not being rated. Regular inspections are conducted every 5 years to ensure the structural integrity of the dam. While the spillway type is listed as "None," indicating a different design approach, the dam's risk management measures and emergency action plan status remain unspecified. For water resource and climate enthusiasts, the Gibson Drain Detention Dam presents an intriguing case study of local water infrastructure and the challenges of balancing effective water management with potential risks.
Dam Height |
9 |
River Or Stream |
Gibson Drain |
Surface Area |
16 |
Hydraulic Height |
7 |
Nid Storage |
112 |
Structural Height |
9 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Nid Height |
9 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Plum Brook At Utica
|
3cfs |
Clinton River At Sterling Heights
|
163cfs |
Clinton River Near Fraser
|
197cfs |
Paint Creek At Rochester
|
18cfs |
Clinton River At Auburn Hills
|
81cfs |
River Rouge At Birmingham
|
13cfs |
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.
Gibson Drain Detention Dam
Stony Lake Near Washington