Gales Pond Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Gales Pond Dam, located in Hart, Michigan, is a local government-owned structure on Huftile Creek with a primary purpose of recreation.


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Summary

Built in 1941, this Earth-type dam stands at a height of 14 feet and spans 330 feet in length, providing a storage capacity of 55 acre-feet. The dam's controlled spillway, with a width of 20 feet, contributes to its low hazard potential and satisfactory condition assessment as of the last inspection in July 2018.

Managed by the Michigan Department of Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy, Gales Pond Dam is regulated, permitted, inspected, and enforced by the state. Despite its very high risk assessment ranking, the dam has not undergone recent modifications or emergency action plan updates. The surrounding area of Oceana County benefits from the recreational opportunities provided by the dam, while also recognizing the importance of ongoing risk management measures to ensure the safety and longevity of the structure.

As water resource and climate enthusiasts explore the intricacies of Gales Pond Dam, they can appreciate its historical significance and the balance it strikes between recreational use and environmental stewardship. With its relatively modest size and stable condition, the dam serves as a reminder of the vital role that infrastructure plays in managing water resources for both human enjoyment and ecological health in the region.

Year Completed

1941

Dam Length

330

Dam Height

14

River Or Stream

Huftile Creek

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

11

Hydraulic Height

14

Nid Storage

55

Structural Height

14

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

14
       
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.