Clarkston Dam
Key Takeaway
Clarkston Dam is classified as high hazard in Michigan. It was completed in 1900 and is 126 years old. Its primary use is recreation. 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 | 34 ft (taller than 92.4% in MI) |
| Dam Length | 214 ft |
| Dam Type | Earth |
| Max Storage | 90 acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 54 acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 10 acres |
| Drainage Area | 12 sq mi |
| Max Discharge | 80 cfs |
| Year Completed | 1900 (126 years old) |
| NID ID | MI00240 |
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
Lehman Investment Company
Private
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What is the hazard classification of Clarkston Dam?
Clarkston 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 Clarkston Dam?
Clarkston Dam is owned by Lehman Investment Company (Private). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Clarkston Dam built?
Clarkston Dam was completed in 1900, making it 126 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 Clarkston Dam?
Clarkston Dam serves the following purposes: Recreation. Many dams in the U.S. are multi-purpose, supporting flood control, water supply, recreation, and other uses.
How tall is Clarkston Dam?
Clarkston Dam has a dam height of 34 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 Clarkston Dam last inspected?
Clarkston Dam was last inspected on September 9, 2020. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.