Lake Somerset Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Lake Somerset Dam in Hillsdale, Michigan, is a privately owned earth dam completed in 1968 for recreational purposes.


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Summary

With a height of 31 feet and a storage capacity of 3,255 acre-feet, this dam on Goose Creek offers a serene environment for water resource and climate enthusiasts to enjoy various outdoor activities. The dam's spillway, with a width of 84 feet, is uncontrolled, allowing for the natural flow of water.

Despite being classified as having a significant hazard potential, the dam's condition was last assessed as satisfactory in October 2019. Located in a picturesque setting with a surface area of 188 acres, Lake Somerset Dam provides a moderate risk environment with a drainage area of 14.2 square miles. With its serene surroundings and recreational opportunities, this dam offers a peaceful retreat for visitors to explore and appreciate the beauty of Michigan's water resources.

Year Completed

1968

Dam Length

810

Dam Height

31

River Or Stream

Goose Creek

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

188

Hydraulic Height

29

Drainage Area

14.2

Nid Storage

3255

Structural Height

31

Hazard Potential

Significant

Nid Height

31
       
Seasonal Comparison

Weather Forecast

Dam Data Reference

Condition Assessment

Satisfactory
No 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

High
Dams 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.