Schafer Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: Peas Lake Dam Harris Dam
Last Updated: December 5, 2025
Schafer Dam, also known as Dream Lake Dam, is a private recreational structure located in Isabella County, Michigan.
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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.
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
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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.
Schafer Dam