Basich Lake Dam

TRIB-NORTH FORK SHORT CREEK· Jefferson, Ohio· Built 1963· Earth· 38 ft tall
High Hazard Recreation Private

Key Takeaway

Basich Lake Dam is classified as high hazard in Ohio. It was completed in 1963 and is 63 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 38 ft (taller than 79.3% in OH)
Dam Length480 ft
Dam TypeEarth
Max Storage135 acre-ft
Normal Storage27 acre-ft
Surface Area5 acres
Drainage Area1 sq mi
Max Discharge6,323 cfs
Year Completed1963 (63 years old)
NID IDOH00862

Safety Information

High Hazard

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?

Emergency Action Plan: No
Last Inspection: November 3, 2022
State Regulated: Yes
Regulatory Agency: Department of Natural Resources

Ownership

Louis & Mary Basich

Private

Nearby Dams

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the hazard classification of Basich Lake Dam?

Basich 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 Basich Lake Dam?

Basich Lake Dam is owned by Louis & Mary Basich (Private). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.

When was Basich Lake Dam built?

Basich Lake Dam was completed in 1963, making it 63 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 Basich Lake Dam?

Basich 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 Basich Lake Dam?

Basich Lake Dam has a dam height of 38 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 Basich Lake Dam last inspected?

Basich Lake Dam was last inspected on November 3, 2022. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.

Data from the National Inventory of Dams (NID) maintained by the US Army Corps of Engineers. Dam conditions may have changed since the last update. This site is not affiliated with USACE. Do not use for emergency planning — contact your local dam safety program.