MICHIGAN RESERVOIR REPORT

Last Updated: February 11, 2026

Michigan's reservoirs and dams are crucial for water storage, flood control, and recreation. However, recent observations indicate that some of these water bodies are experiencing abnormal conditions. For instance, Lake Gogebic near Bergland has a current gage height of 1 ft, significantly lower than its average of 2.33 ft, which may suggest reduced inflow or increased water usage. Conversely, Greenwood Reservoir's current level of 114 ft is slightly above its usual 113.12 ft, indicating potential higher inflows, perhaps due to increased precipitation or snowmelt. Such discrepancies highlight the importance of monitoring these structures for optimal management and safety.

Notably, Stony Lake near Washington is at a gage height of 6 ft, well below its average of 10.93 ft, raising concerns over potential water shortages or ecological impacts. In contrast, Cisco Lake and Austin Lake are relatively stable, hovering near their average levels. However, the Schweitzer Reservoir near Palmer has dipped slightly below its average, which may be due to a combination of factors including seasonal variations and human activities. Cross-referencing with multiple sources, such as reports on Great Lakes infrastructure funding and environmental regulation updates, is crucial for understanding the broader context of these anomalies. Weather events, as reported, can also affect water levels and snowpack, impacting not only local ecosystems and water supply but also tourism and fishing industries, as evidenced by the situation in states like Maine. As the data shows some worrying trends, it's imperative to continue monitoring and analyzing these vital water resources for any signs of distress or further deviation from the norm.

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.