Lamberson Dam Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 5, 2025
Lamberson Dam, also known as Palmer & Long Lakes Dam, is a private-owned structure located in St.
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Summary
Joseph, Michigan, specifically in the city of Colon. Completed in 1839, this gravity-type dam serves primarily for recreational purposes, with a height of 16 feet and a controlled spillway width of 87 feet. The dam stands as a significant structure on Swan Creek, providing a storage capacity of 4375 acre-feet and a maximum discharge of 2050 cubic feet per second.
Managed by the Michigan Department of Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy (DEGLE), Lamberson Dam has undergone regular inspections, with the most recent assessment in November 2019 rating its condition as satisfactory. Despite its hazard potential being deemed significant, the risk assessment categorizes it as having a very high risk level (1). With a drainage area of 112 square miles and a normal storage capacity of 2400 acre-feet, the dam's surface area spans 670 acres, offering both recreational and environmental benefits to the surrounding community.
For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Lamberson Dam presents an intriguing case study in sustainable dam management and risk mitigation. As a historic structure with a long-standing presence in Michigan's landscape, the dam's continued operation underscores the importance of regular inspections, maintenance, and emergency preparedness. With a focus on recreation and water storage, Lamberson Dam serves as a vital component of the local ecosystem, balancing the needs of human activity with the preservation of natural resources along Swan Creek.
Year Completed |
1839 |
Dam Length |
110 |
Dam Height |
16 |
River Or Stream |
Swan Creek |
Primary Dam Type |
Gravity |
Surface Area |
670 |
Hydraulic Height |
15.35 |
Drainage Area |
112 |
Nid Storage |
4375 |
Structural Height |
16 |
Hazard Potential |
Significant |
Nid Height |
16 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Prairie River Near Nottawa
|
44cfs |
St. Joseph River At Three Rivers
|
487cfs |
St. Joseph River At Burlington
|
74cfs |
Pigeon River Near Scott
|
132cfs |
St. Joseph River At Mottville
|
759cfs |
Kalamazoo River At Comstock
|
676cfs |
Dam Data Reference
Condition Assessment
SatisfactoryNo 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
HighDams 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.
Lamberson Dam
Pine Grove Road 59160, Colon Township