Adams Lake Dam
Key Takeaway
Adams Lake Dam is classified as high hazard in Ohio. It was completed in 1947 and is 79 years old. Its primary use is recreation. High hazard means loss of life is likely if the dam fails — it does not indicate the dam's current condition. Learn more.
Physical Details
| Dam Height | 35 ft (taller than 73.7% in OH) |
| Dam Length | 847 ft |
| Dam Type | Earth |
| Max Storage | 885 acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 245 acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 32 acres |
| Drainage Area | 5 sq mi |
| Max Discharge | 18,571 cfs |
| Year Completed | 1947 (79 years old) |
| NID ID | OH00259 |
Safety Information
Loss of human life is likely if the dam fails.
Hazard potential describes downstream consequences of failure, not the dam's current condition. What does this mean?
Ownership
ODNR, Division of Parks & Watercraft
State Government
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High Hazard 67 ftFrequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Adams Lake Dam?
Adams Lake Dam is classified as High Hazard. Loss of human life is likely if the dam fails. This classification refers to the potential downstream consequences of a failure, not the dam's current structural condition.
Who owns and operates Adams Lake Dam?
Adams Lake Dam is owned by ODNR, Division of Parks & Watercraft (State Government). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Adams Lake Dam built?
Adams Lake Dam was completed in 1947, making it 79 years old. Many U.S. dams were built between the 1930s and 1970s during a period of major infrastructure investment.
What is the primary purpose of Adams Lake Dam?
Adams Lake Dam serves the following purposes: Recreation. Many dams in the U.S. are multi-purpose, supporting flood control, water supply, recreation, and other uses.
How tall is Adams Lake Dam?
Adams Lake Dam has a dam height of 35 ft. Dam height is measured from the natural streambed at the downstream toe to the top of the dam, and may differ from the visible height.
When was Adams Lake Dam last inspected?
Adams Lake Dam was last inspected on June 28, 2018. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.