MICHIGAN RESERVOIR REPORT

Last Updated: December 21, 2025

In Michigan, the latest observations of key reservoirs and dams have shown a mix of normal and abnormal conditions for the current time of year. Lake Gogebic near Bergland and Stony Lake near Washington are experiencing lower than average gage heights at 1 ft and 6 ft respectively, compared to their averages of 2.34 ft and 10.93 ft. Conversely, Greenwood Reservoir near Greenwood is slightly above its average, recording a gage height of 115 ft against an average of 113.11 ft. The other reservoirs, Cisco Lake near Watersmeet, Schweitzer Reservoir near Palmer, and Austin Lake near Kalamazoo, are at or just below their average levels, indicating relatively stable conditions.

The deviations observed in some reservoir levels could be attributed to various factors, including abnormal snowpack levels and river flows influenced by regional climatic conditions. Lake Gogebic and Stony Lake's lower levels may point to reduced snowmelt or precipitation in their watersheds, whereas Greenwood Reservoir's rise could be the result of increased runoff or precipitation. These findings are critical, given the importance of monitoring reservoir levels for water supply, flood control, and ecological balance. It's essential to reference multiple sources, such as WorldAtlas reports on the most dangerous lakes and AOL.com's coverage of Lake Michigan, to cross-validate data and understand the broader impacts of these water level changes. While some Michigan lakes have been highlighted for danger due to various reasons, including high waves crashing over structures, the reservoir data does not suggest immediate danger but warrants continued observation and analysis to ensure preparedness for any potential water-related risks.

Michigan has over 1200 dams, 200 of which are major dams, many of which form significant reservoirs. The state's major reservoirs include Lake St. Clair, Houghton Lake, Higgins Lake, Hubbard Lake, Manistee Lake, and Hamlin Lake. These reservoirs are primarily fed by various rivers, including the St. Clair River, Au Sable River, and Manistee River. Michigan's hydrology is heavily influenced by snowpack and winter precipitation, which provide the bulk of the water supply for the state's streams and reservoirs. The Upper Peninsula, with its higher elevations and colder temperatures, typically has higher snowpack levels and more significant snowmelt runoff than the Lower Peninsula. Some areas of the state have experienced record high water levels and flooding in recent years, while other areas have experienced drought conditions. Seasonal trends in water levels vary by location and depend on factors such as snowmelt timing and precipitation patterns. Overall, Michigan's reservoirs and dams play a crucial role in regulating water supply and managing flood risk in the state.

Michigan has over 1200 dams, 200 of which are major dams, many of which form significant reservoirs. The state's major reservoirs include Lake St. Clair, Houghton Lake, Higgins Lake, Hubbard Lake, Manistee Lake, and Hamlin Lake. These reservoirs are primarily fed by various rivers, including the St. Clair River, Au Sable River, and Manistee River. Michigan's hydrology is heavily influenced by snowpack and winter precipitation, which provide the bulk of the water supply for the state's streams and reservoirs. The Upper Peninsula, with its higher elevations and colder temperatures, typically has higher snowpack levels and more significant snowmelt runoff than the Lower Peninsula. Some areas of the state have experienced record high water levels and flooding in recent years, while other areas have experienced drought conditions. Seasonal trends in water levels vary by location and depend on factors such as snowmelt timing and precipitation patterns. Overall, Michigan's reservoirs and dams play a crucial role in regulating water supply and managing flood risk in the state.