The Pomona Lake Dam was built in 1963 at a cost of over $13 million dollars. To this day, flood protection savings have well exceeded $135 million. Pomona Lake controls watershed runoff over a 322-square-mile area. This lake is operated in conjunction with other Army Corps projects, which Congress authorized to be built for flood control in the Kansas, Missouri, and Mississippi river basins.
Hunters can find a variety of game, including rabbit dove, quail, deer, turkey, and waterfowl on Corps-managed project lands and water. Hunting is permitted on approximately 4,500 acres of land surrounding the lake. Hunting is not permitted in park areas and several locations have some restrictions in effect.
A variety of recreational opportunities and facilities are available at Pomona Lake. There are six Corps-managed parks and the Pomona State Park where camping is permitted. These parks have numerous campsites, shade trees, electrical and water hookups, showers, picnic areas, playground equipment, and sanitary dump stations.
Marina concessions are available in Michigan Valley Park and Pomona State Park. They offer boating, fishing, and camping supplies and services. Boat ramps are available at all parks. Swimming beaches are located at both the Michigan Valley and Pomona State Parks. In addition, accessible fishing docks, and nature trails all present great opportunities for a fun day at Pomona Lake.