Upper Goose Pen Pool Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Upper Goose Pen Pool Dam in Schoolcraft, Michigan, is a Federal-owned structure designed by the USDI Division of Wildlife Refuges for the primary purpose of serving as a Fish and Wildlife Pond.


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Summary

Completed in 1939, this Earth-type dam stands at a height of 17 feet and has a structural length of 325 feet. It is located on Gray's Creek and Pine Creek, providing essential water resources for the surrounding area.

With a normal storage capacity of 34 acre-feet and a drainage area of 46.7 square miles, Upper Goose Pen Pool Dam plays a crucial role in managing water flow and supporting wildlife habitats in the region. Despite its low hazard potential, the dam's condition assessment in 2018 rated as poor, highlighting the need for ongoing maintenance and inspection to ensure its structural integrity and operational efficiency. The dam also has a controlled spillway and other controlled outlet gates to manage water levels effectively.

As an important component of the local ecosystem, Upper Goose Pen Pool Dam requires careful monitoring and risk assessment to mitigate potential hazards and ensure continued functionality. With its very high risk rating and the involvement of the Michigan DEGLE in regulation and enforcement, this dam serves as a key resource for water management and conservation efforts in the area. Climate and water resource enthusiasts will find this dam's history and operational details fascinating, showcasing the intersection of human infrastructure and environmental stewardship.

Year Completed

1939

Dam Length

325

Dam Height

17

River Or Stream

GRAY'S CREEK AND PINE CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

27

Hydraulic Height

17

Drainage Area

46.7

Nid Storage

399

Structural Height

19

Outlet Gates

Other Controlled

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

19
       
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.