Hermansville Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: January 12, 2026

Hermansville Dam, located in Hermansville, Michigan, is a significant earth dam constructed in 1888 for the primary purpose of recreation.


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Summary

Situated on the Little Cedar River, the dam stands at a height of 12 feet with a hydraulic height of 11.5 feet and a length of 235 feet. With a normal storage capacity of 475 acre-feet and a maximum storage capacity of 630 acre-feet, the dam covers a surface area of 132 acres and has a drainage area of 15 square miles.

Managed by the local government, Hermansville Dam is under the regulatory oversight of the Michigan Department of Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy (DEGLE). The dam has been classified as having a significant hazard potential but is currently in satisfactory condition based on the last inspection conducted in September 2018. Despite its age, Hermansville Dam continues to provide recreational opportunities and serves as a vital component of the local water resource infrastructure.

As water resource and climate enthusiasts, it is important to monitor the maintenance and condition of dams like Hermansville Dam to ensure their continued safety and functionality. With its historical significance and recreational value, Hermansville Dam remains a focal point for both the community and visitors alike, highlighting the intersection of water management, infrastructure, and environmental stewardship in the region.

Year Completed

1888

Dam Length

235

Dam Height

12

River Or Stream

Little Cedar River

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

132

Hydraulic Height

11.5

Drainage Area

15

Nid Storage

630

Structural Height

12

Hazard Potential

Significant

Nid Height

12
       
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.