Cave Lake Dam
Key Takeaway
Cave Lake Dam is classified as high hazard in Ohio. It was completed in 1962 and is 64 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 | 29 ft (taller than 58% in OH) |
| Dam Length | 287 ft |
| Dam Type | Earth |
| Max Storage | 1.0K acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 260 acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 38 acres |
| Drainage Area | 7 sq mi |
| Max Discharge | 6,757 cfs |
| Year Completed | 1962 (64 years old) |
| NID ID | OH00197 |
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
Ohio - West Virginia YLA
Private
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High Hazard 31 ftRocky Fork Lake Dam
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High Hazard 74 ftChristian Union Church Lake Dam
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Significant Hazard 23 ftFrequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Cave Lake Dam?
Cave 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 Cave Lake Dam?
Cave Lake Dam is owned by Ohio - West Virginia YLA (Private). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Cave Lake Dam built?
Cave Lake Dam was completed in 1962, making it 64 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 Cave Lake Dam?
Cave 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 Cave Lake Dam?
Cave Lake Dam has a dam height of 29 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 Cave Lake Dam last inspected?
Cave Lake Dam was last inspected on November 22, 2022. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.