Schafer Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: April 13, 2026

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Schafer Dam, also known as Dream Lake Dam, is a private recreational structure located in Isabella County, Michigan.


Summary

Completed in 1969, this earth dam stands at a height of 10 feet and stretches 500 feet in length, creating a reservoir with a storage capacity of 60 acre-feet. Situated on Thatcher Drain, the dam serves as a popular spot for outdoor enthusiasts looking to enjoy water-based activities in the area.

Despite its low hazard potential, Schafer Dam is deemed to have a very high risk due to its age and lack of recent condition assessments. The dam features a controlled spillway with a width of 4 feet and a maximum discharge capacity of 700 cubic feet per second. While the structure has not been regulated or inspected by the state, it remains a key element in the local recreational landscape, offering opportunities for fishing, boating, and other water-based activities. With its unique location and historical significance, Schafer Dam continues to attract water resource and climate enthusiasts from near and far.

15-Day Long Term Forecast


Year Completed

1969

Dam Length

500

Dam Height

10

River Or Stream

Thatcher Drain

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

3

Hydraulic Height

10

Nid Storage

60

Structural Height

10

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

10
       
Seasonal Comparison

5-Day Hourly Forecast Detail

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.
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