Big Bear Lake Dam
Key Takeaway
Big Bear Lake Dam is classified as high hazard in Ohio. It was completed in 1972 and is 54 years old. Its primary use is flood risk reduction. 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 | 37 ft (taller than 77.9% in OH) |
| Dam Length | 1,100 ft |
| Dam Type | Earth |
| Max Storage | 926 acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 382 acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 45 acres |
| Drainage Area | 12 sq mi |
| Max Discharge | 18,662 cfs |
| Year Completed | 1972 (54 years old) |
| NID ID | OH00291 |
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
James Robin Waddell;M., B., J., McFarland
Private
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Low Hazard 14 ftPine Lake Dam
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Low Hazard 16 ftFrequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Big Bear Lake Dam?
Big Bear 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 Big Bear Lake Dam?
Big Bear Lake Dam is owned by James Robin Waddell;M., B., J., McFarland (Private). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Big Bear Lake Dam built?
Big Bear Lake Dam was completed in 1972, making it 54 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 Big Bear Lake Dam?
Big Bear Lake Dam serves the following purposes: Flood Risk Reduction, Recreation. Many dams in the U.S. are multi-purpose, supporting flood control, water supply, recreation, and other uses.
How tall is Big Bear Lake Dam?
Big Bear Lake Dam has a dam height of 37 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 Big Bear Lake Dam last inspected?
Big Bear Lake Dam was last inspected on November 22, 2022. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.