Litchfield Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: Big Mosherville Dam Briskey Pond Dam
Last Updated: February 21, 2026
Litchfield Dam, also known as F W Stock #2, is a vital water resource structure located in Litchfield, Michigan, along the Saint Joseph River.
Summary
Built in 1846, this earth dam stands at a height of 8 feet and spans a length of 600 feet, providing a storage capacity of 52 acre-feet. Despite its age, the dam is well-maintained and has a low hazard potential, with a risk assessment rating of high (2), indicating the importance of its role in managing water resources in the area.
Managed by the local government, Litchfield Dam plays a crucial role in regulating water flow and storage in the region, with a normal storage capacity of 26 acre-feet and a surface area of 13 acres. While the dam does not have a spillway, it is equipped with outlet gates to control water discharge. The dam is subject to regular inspections and regulatory oversight by the Michigan Department of Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy (EGLE), ensuring its structural integrity and safety for the surrounding community.
With its strategic location and contribution to water management in Hillsdale County, Litchfield Dam serves as a key infrastructure for the region's water resource and climate enthusiasts. Its historical significance, coupled with its continued functionality and low hazard potential, highlights the importance of maintaining and preserving such essential structures for sustainable water resource management in Michigan.
°F
°F
mph
Wind
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Humidity
15-Day Weather Outlook
Year Completed |
1846 |
Dam Length |
600 |
Dam Height |
8 |
River Or Stream |
Saint Joseph River |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
13 |
Hydraulic Height |
8 |
Drainage Area |
201 |
Nid Storage |
52 |
Structural Height |
8 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Nid Height |
8 |
Seasonal Comparison
5-Day Hourly Forecast Detail
Nearby Streamflow Levels
South Branch Hog Creek Near Allen
|
63cfs |
Kalamazoo River Near Marengo
|
278cfs |
St. Joseph River At Burlington
|
239cfs |
Kalamazoo River At Marshall
|
502cfs |
Grand River At Jackson
|
152cfs |
West Branch St. Joseph River Nr Nettle Lake
|
166cfs |
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 |
|---|---|---|
Wildwood Acres Campground
|
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Swains Lake
|
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Marble Lake County Park
|
Litchfield Dam
Waterman Street Homer