Middle Comstock Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Middle Comstock Dam, located in Comstock, Michigan, on Comstock Creek, serves as a vital recreational resource in the area.


°F

°F

mph

Wind

%

Humidity

Summary

Built in 1890, this earth dam stands at a height of 21 feet and has a length of 490 feet, providing a storage capacity of 70 acre-feet. The dam's primary purpose is for recreation, offering a surface area of 2.6 acres for outdoor activities and water-based adventures.

Despite its historical significance and recreational value, Middle Comstock Dam poses a high hazard potential due to its outdated infrastructure and lack of recent inspections. The last inspection was conducted in 1979, indicating a need for updated assessments to ensure the safety and stability of the structure. The dam's risk assessment is moderate, highlighting the importance of implementing risk management measures to mitigate potential hazards and protect the surrounding community.

As water resource and climate enthusiasts, it is crucial to advocate for the proper maintenance and monitoring of Middle Comstock Dam to safeguard its integrity and prevent any potential disasters. With a proactive approach to risk management and regular inspections, this historic dam can continue to provide recreational opportunities while ensuring the safety of residents and visitors in the Kalamazoo, Michigan area.

Year Completed

1890

Dam Length

490

Dam Height

21

River Or Stream

Comstock Creek

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

2.6

Hydraulic Height

21

Drainage Area

13.4

Nid Storage

70

Structural Height

21

Hazard Potential

High

Nid Height

21
       
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.