Weatherwood Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: Baw Beese Lake Dam Lake Bel-Air Dam
Last Updated: December 5, 2025
Weatherwood Dam, also known as Fry Dam, is a privately owned structure located in Osseo, Michigan.
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Summary
Built in 1970 by USDA NRCS, this earth dam stands at a height of 22.5 feet and serves primarily for recreational purposes. Situated on a tributary to the East Branch St. Joseph River, the dam has a normal storage capacity of 229 acre-feet and a maximum discharge rate of 290 cubic feet per second.
Managed and regulated by the Michigan Department of Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy (DEGLE), Weatherwood Dam has a low hazard potential and is classified as being in satisfactory condition as of the last inspection in December 2016. With a drainage area of 0.5 square miles and a surface area of 27.6 acres, the dam provides both flood control and recreational opportunities for the local community. Despite its moderate risk assessment rating, the dam continues to be a safe and functional asset in the region.
Overall, Weatherwood Dam stands as a testament to the importance of sustainable water resource management in the face of changing climate conditions. Its strategic location and design demonstrate a careful balance between recreational enjoyment and environmental protection, highlighting the need for ongoing monitoring and maintenance to ensure the dam's continued safety and effectiveness in the years to come.
Year Completed |
1970 |
Dam Length |
315 |
Dam Height |
22.5 |
River Or Stream |
Trib to E Br St Joseph River |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
27.6 |
Hydraulic Height |
22 |
Drainage Area |
0.5 |
Nid Storage |
367 |
Structural Height |
22.5 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Nid Height |
23 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
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.
Weatherwood Dam