Essington Lake Dam
Key Takeaway
Essington Lake Dam is classified as significant hazard in Ohio. It was completed in 1945 and is 81 years old. Its primary use is recreation. Significant hazard means failure could cause economic or environmental damage. Learn more.
Physical Details
| Dam Height | 20 ft (taller than 27.7% in OH) |
| Dam Length | 625 ft |
| Dam Type | Earth |
| Max Storage | 240 acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 60 acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 16 acres |
| Drainage Area | 1 sq mi |
| Max Discharge | 3,487 cfs |
| Year Completed | 1945 (81 years old) |
| NID ID | OH00654 |
Safety Information
No probable loss of human life, but can cause economic loss, environmental damage, or disruption of lifeline facilities.
Hazard potential describes downstream consequences of failure, not the dam's current condition. What does this mean?
Ownership
ODNR, Division of Forestry
State Government
Nearby Dams
Perry Reclamation Dam No. 3
Perry, OH
High Hazard 48 ftPerry Reclamation Dam No. 2
Perry, OH
Low Hazard 27 ftNew Lexington Reservoir Dam
Perry, OH
High Hazard 45 ftRush Creek Structure No. 1-B
Perry, OH
High Hazard 45 ftPerry County Recreation Assoc. Lake Dam
Perry, OH
Significant Hazard 19 ftDeerfoot Lake Dam
Perry, OH
Significant Hazard 28 ftRushcreek Structure No. Ii
Perry, OH
Significant Hazard 31 ftRushcreek Structure No. Iii-E
Perry, OH
Significant Hazard 42 ftFrequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Essington Lake Dam?
Essington Lake Dam is classified as Significant Hazard. No probable loss of human life, but can cause economic loss, environmental damage, or disruption of lifeline facilities. This classification refers to the potential downstream consequences of a failure, not the dam's current structural condition.
Who owns and operates Essington Lake Dam?
Essington Lake Dam is owned by ODNR, Division of Forestry (State Government). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Essington Lake Dam built?
Essington Lake Dam was completed in 1945, making it 81 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 Essington Lake Dam?
Essington 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 Essington Lake Dam?
Essington Lake Dam has a dam height of 20 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 Essington Lake Dam last inspected?
Essington Lake Dam was last inspected on June 16, 2022. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.