Lake Somerset Dam
Key Takeaway
Lake Somerset Dam is classified as significant hazard in Michigan. It was completed in 1968 and is 58 years old. Its primary use is recreation. Significant hazard means failure could cause economic or environmental damage. Learn more.
Physical Details
| Dam Height | 31 ft (taller than 90.6% in MI) |
| Dam Length | 810 ft |
| Dam Type | Earth |
| Max Storage | 3.3K acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 2.4K acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 188 acres |
| Drainage Area | 14 sq mi |
| Max Discharge | 883 cfs |
| Year Completed | 1968 (58 years old) |
| NID ID | MI00086 |
Safety Information
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?
Ownership
Hillsdale County Drain Commissioner
Private
Nearby Dams
Crystal Lake Dam
Hillsdale, MI
Low Hazard 10 ftLombard Lake Dam
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Low Hazard 8 ftLiberty Dam
Jackson, MI
Significant Hazard 11 ftMirror Lake Dam
Jackson, MI
Significant Hazard 21 ftLake Le-Ann North Dam
Jackson, MI
Significant Hazard 27 ftLake Le-Ann South Dam
Hillsdale, MI
Low Hazard 23 ftPutney Dam
Jackson, MI
Low Hazard 9 ftAddison Mill Pond Dam
Lenawee, MI
High Hazard 25 ftFrequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Lake Somerset Dam?
Lake Somerset 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 Lake Somerset Dam?
Lake Somerset Dam is owned by Hillsdale County Drain Commissioner (Private). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Lake Somerset Dam built?
Lake Somerset Dam was completed in 1968, making it 58 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 Lake Somerset Dam?
Lake Somerset 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 Lake Somerset Dam?
Lake Somerset Dam has a dam height of 31 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 Lake Somerset Dam last inspected?
Lake Somerset Dam was last inspected on October 2, 2019. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.