Lower Chilson Pond Dam

Chilson Creek· Livingston, Michigan· Built 1961· Earth· 11 ft tall
Significant Hazard Recreation State Government

Key Takeaway

Lower Chilson Pond Dam is classified as significant hazard in Michigan. It was completed in 1961 and is 65 years old. Its primary use is recreation. Significant hazard means failure could cause economic or environmental damage. Learn more.

Physical Details

Dam Height 11 ft (taller than 26.9% in MI)
Dam Length241 ft
Dam TypeEarth
Max Storage410 acre-ft
Normal Storage130 acre-ft
Surface Area40 acres
Drainage Area9 sq mi
Max Discharge260 cfs
Year Completed1961 (65 years old)
NID IDMI00757

Safety Information

Significant Hazard

No probable loss of human life, but can cause economic loss, environmental damage, or disruption of lifeline facilities.

Hazard potential describes downstream consequences of failure, not the dam's current condition. What does this mean?

Emergency Action Plan: Yes
Last Inspection: November 4, 2019
State Regulated: Yes
Regulatory Agency: MICHIGAN DEGLE

Ownership

MDNR Parks & Recreation

State Government

Nearby Dams

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the hazard classification of Lower Chilson Pond Dam?

Lower Chilson Pond Dam is classified as Significant Hazard. No probable loss of human life, but can cause economic loss, environmental damage, or disruption of lifeline facilities. This classification refers to the potential downstream consequences of a failure, not the dam's current structural condition.

Who owns and operates Lower Chilson Pond Dam?

Lower Chilson Pond Dam is owned by MDNR Parks & Recreation (State Government). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.

When was Lower Chilson Pond Dam built?

Lower Chilson Pond Dam was completed in 1961, making it 65 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 Lower Chilson Pond Dam?

Lower Chilson Pond 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 Lower Chilson Pond Dam?

Lower Chilson Pond Dam has a dam height of 11 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 Lower Chilson Pond Dam last inspected?

Lower Chilson Pond Dam was last inspected on November 4, 2019. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.

Data from the National Inventory of Dams (NID) maintained by the US Army Corps of Engineers. Dam conditions may have changed since the last update. This site is not affiliated with USACE. Do not use for emergency planning — contact your local dam safety program.