Thompson's Pond Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: Nartron Dam Buckhorn Creek Dam
Last Updated: December 5, 2025
Located in Osceola, Michigan, Thompson's Pond Dam is a privately owned structure that serves the primary purpose of recreation.
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Summary
Constructed in 1970, this earth dam stands at a height of 15 feet and spans 270 feet in length, creating a storage capacity of 60 acre-feet. The dam sits on Jewett Creek and features a controlled spillway with a width of 33 feet, ensuring safe water release during peak flow events. Despite its low hazard potential and satisfactory condition assessment, the dam is subject to state regulation and inspection by the Michigan Department of Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy (DEGLE).
Thompson's Pond Dam offers a tranquil setting for outdoor enthusiasts seeking recreational opportunities in Reed City. With a surface area of 6 acres and a normal storage level of 35 acre-feet, the dam provides a picturesque backdrop for activities such as fishing, boating, and wildlife viewing. The dam's very high risk assessment ranking underscores the importance of ongoing maintenance and monitoring to ensure the safety and integrity of the structure. In the event of an emergency, it is crucial for the dam's owners to have an effective Emergency Action Plan (EAP) in place to protect downstream communities and infrastructure.
As part of the Chicago District, Thompson's Pond Dam falls under the oversight of the US Army Corps of Engineers (USACE). The dam's last inspection in September 2019 deemed its condition satisfactory, but regular assessments are essential to mitigate risks and address any potential issues. With its scenic surroundings and vital role in water resource management, Thompson's Pond Dam stands as a testament to the intersection of human ingenuity, environmental stewardship, and recreational enjoyment.
Year Completed |
1970 |
Dam Length |
270 |
Dam Height |
15 |
River Or Stream |
Jewett Creek |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
6 |
Hydraulic Height |
15 |
Nid Storage |
60 |
Structural Height |
15 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Nid Height |
15 |
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.
Area Campgrounds
| Location | Reservations | Toilets |
|---|---|---|
Rambadt City Park
|
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Blodgett Landing
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Hillside Campground
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Thompson's Pond Dam