Big Mosherville Dam Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 5, 2025
Big Mosherville Dam, also known as Big Mosherville Lake, is a privately owned structure located in Mosherville, Michigan, along the South Branch Kalamazoo River.
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Summary
Completed in 1898, the earth dam stands at a height of 9.5 feet, with a hydraulic height of 7 feet and a structural height of 9.5 feet. Its primary purpose is for recreation, offering a surface area of 17 acres and a storage capacity of 110 acre-feet. The dam has a controlled spillway with a width of 11 feet and a maximum discharge of 82 cubic feet per second.
Despite its historical significance, Big Mosherville Dam is currently in poor condition with a low hazard potential. The last inspection in November 2019 revealed a very high risk rating, reflecting the urgent need for maintenance and repair. The dam is regulated by the Michigan Department of Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy (DEGLE), with state permitting, inspection, and enforcement in place. The risk assessment highlights the critical need for effective risk management measures to ensure the safety and stability of the dam.
For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Big Mosherville Dam serves as a focal point for understanding the intersection of historical infrastructure, recreational opportunities, and environmental stewardship. As discussions around dam safety and risk management continue to evolve, the case of Big Mosherville Dam presents a compelling study in balancing the preservation of cultural heritage with the imperative of ensuring public safety and environmental sustainability in the face of changing climate conditions.
Year Completed |
1898 |
Dam Length |
180 |
Dam Height |
9.5 |
River Or Stream |
South Branch Kalamazoo River |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
17 |
Hydraulic Height |
7 |
Drainage Area |
0.1 |
Nid Storage |
110 |
Structural Height |
9.5 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Nid Height |
10 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Dam Data Reference
Condition Assessment
SatisfactoryNo existing or potential dam safety deficiencies are recognized. Acceptable performance is expected under all loading conditions (static, hydrologic, seismic) in accordance with the minimum applicable state or federal regulatory criteria or tolerable risk guidelines.
Fair
No existing dam safety deficiencies are recognized for normal operating conditions. Rare or extreme hydrologic and/or seismic events may result in a dam safety deficiency. Risk may be in the range to take further action. Note: Rare or extreme event is defined by the regulatory agency based on their minimum
Poor A dam safety deficiency is recognized for normal operating conditions which may realistically occur. Remedial action is necessary. POOR may also be used when uncertainties exist as to critical analysis parameters which identify a potential dam safety deficiency. Investigations and studies are necessary.
Unsatisfactory
A dam safety deficiency is recognized that requires immediate or emergency remedial action for problem resolution.
Not Rated
The dam has not been inspected, is not under state or federal jurisdiction, or has been inspected but, for whatever reason, has not been rated.
Not Available
Dams for which the condition assessment is restricted to approved government users.
Hazard Potential Classification
HighDams assigned the high hazard potential classification are those where failure or mis-operation will probably cause loss of human life.
Significant
Dams assigned the significant hazard potential classification are those dams where failure or mis-operation results in no probable loss of human life but can cause economic loss, environment damage, disruption of lifeline facilities, or impact other concerns. Significant hazard potential classification dams are often located in predominantly rural or agricultural areas but could be in areas with population and significant infrastructure.
Low
Dams assigned the low hazard potential classification are those where failure or mis-operation results in no probable loss of human life and low economic and/or environmental losses. Losses are principally limited to the owner's property.
Undetermined
Dams for which a downstream hazard potential has not been designated or is not provided.
Not Available
Dams for which the downstream hazard potential is restricted to approved government users.
Big Mosherville Dam
Pulaski Road 7400, Pulaski Township