Thompson Lake

Lake Level & Dam Management

The Thompson Lake level was established under Part 307 of the Natural Resources and Environmental Protection Act (NREPA), also known as Public Act 451 of 1994, as amended. The summer and winter lake levels are mandated by a 1984 Court Order, which came about by petition from the residents. The Drain Commissioner is responsible for maintaining the levels through operation of the dam. LCDC is also responsible for inspecting and maintaining the dam. The Court Order requires the lake to be lowered three feet every other year. To compensate for the potential loss of fish habitat, stocking of northern pike is required in the years the lake level is lowered.

Weed Control Program Management

The Thompson Lake Improvement Board (LIB) was established under Part 309 of NREPA. The Board initiates public hearings to establish a lake improvement project based on the needs of the lake and feedback from the residents. The lake improvement project could include various activities such as weed control, dredging, engineering studies, plant surveys, etc. The Board is responsible for managing the detailed activities of the approved lake improvement project.

Fish Stocking

Thompson Lake is stocked with fish every other year as a requirement of the 1984 Court Order, which sets the elevation of the lake and allows the lake to be lowered every other year. The most recent stocking occurred in November 2020. The next fish stocking event was scheduled to occur in November 2022. However, due to the lack of Northern Pike availability, the event was cancelled.