Barton Dam
Key Takeaway
Barton Dam is classified as high hazard in Michigan. It was completed in 1913 and is 113 years old. Its primary use is water supply. High hazard means loss of life is likely if the dam fails — it does not indicate the dam's current condition. Learn more.
Physical Details
| Dam Height | 24 ft (taller than 81.6% in MI) |
| Dam Length | 1,767 ft |
| Dam Type | Earth |
| Max Storage | 7.3K acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 5.0K acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 315 acres |
| Drainage Area | 728 sq mi |
| Max Discharge | 15,100 cfs |
| Year Completed | 1913 (113 years old) |
| NID ID | MI00560 |
Safety Information
Loss of human life is likely if the dam fails.
Hazard potential describes downstream consequences of failure, not the dam's current condition. What does this mean?
Ownership
Ann Arbor, City of
Local Government
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What is the hazard classification of Barton Dam?
Barton Dam is classified as High Hazard. Loss of human life is likely if the dam fails. This classification refers to the potential downstream consequences of a failure, not the dam's current structural condition.
Who owns and operates Barton Dam?
Barton Dam is owned by Ann Arbor, City of (Local Government). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Barton Dam built?
Barton Dam was completed in 1913, making it 113 years old. Many U.S. dams were built between the 1930s and 1970s during a period of major infrastructure investment.
What is the primary purpose of Barton Dam?
Barton Dam serves the following purposes: Water Supply, Recreation, Hydroelectric. Many dams in the U.S. are multi-purpose, supporting flood control, water supply, recreation, and other uses.
How tall is Barton Dam?
Barton Dam has a dam height of 24 ft. Dam height is measured from the natural streambed at the downstream toe to the top of the dam, and may differ from the visible height.
When was Barton Dam last inspected?
Barton Dam was last inspected on July 14, 2022. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.