Gales Pond Dam, located in Hart, Michigan, is a local government-owned structure on Huftile Creek with a primary purpose of recreation.
Wind
Humidity
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 |
White River Near Whitehall
|
281cfs |
Pere Marquette River At Scottville
|
480cfs |
Bear Creek Near Muskegon
|
6cfs |
Muskegon River Near Croton
|
1280cfs |
Little Muskegon River Near Oak Grove
|
177cfs |
Manistee River Near Wellston
|
1580cfs |