Lombard Lake Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Lombard Lake Dam, also known as Merkel Dam, is a state-regulated structure located in Hillsdale, Michigan.


°F

°F

mph

Wind

%

Humidity

Summary

Built in 1960, this earth dam stands at a height of 8 feet and serves primarily for recreational purposes, with a normal storage capacity of 275 acre-feet and a maximum storage of 550 acre-feet. The dam spans 450 feet in length and is situated along a tributary to Goose Creek, offering a surface area of 137.3 acres for visitors to enjoy.

With a low hazard potential and a satisfactory condition assessment as of October 2020, Lombard Lake Dam plays a crucial role in water resource management within the area. The dam features an uncontrolled spillway type with a width of 3 feet and a maximum discharge capacity of 150 cubic feet per second. While the risk assessment deems the structure to have a moderate risk level, regular state inspections and enforcement measures ensure its continued safety and functionality.

Overall, Lombard Lake Dam stands as a testament to Michigan's commitment to water conservation and recreation. With its scenic location in Somerset Center and its role in providing a recreational oasis for locals and visitors alike, this dam represents a harmonious blend of natural beauty and human ingenuity. Its historical significance, coupled with its vital contribution to water management in the region, solidifies Lombard Lake Dam as a cornerstone of environmental stewardship and climate resilience efforts.

Year Completed

1960

Dam Length

450

Dam Height

8

River Or Stream

Tributary to Goose Creek

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

137.3

Hydraulic Height

7.1

Drainage Area

1.43

Nid Storage

550

Structural Height

8

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

8
       
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.