Giel Lake Dam

TRIBUTARY TO CUYAHOGA RIVER· Geauga, Ohio· Earth· 15 ft tall
Significant Hazard Recreation Private

Key Takeaway

Giel Lake Dam is classified as significant hazard in Ohio. Its primary use is recreation. Significant hazard means failure could cause economic or environmental damage. Learn more.

Physical Details

Dam Height 15 ft (taller than 12.4% in OH)
Dam Length350 ft
Dam TypeEarth
Max Storage32 acre-ft
Normal Storage6 acre-ft
Surface Area3 acres
Drainage Area2 sq mi
Max Discharge838 cfs
NID IDOH03134

Safety Information

Significant Hazard

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?

Emergency Action Plan: No
Last Inspection: October 21, 2021
State Regulated: Yes
Regulatory Agency: Department of Natural Resources

Ownership

Michael & Carrie Giel

Private

Nearby Dams

Harvey'S Lake Dam

Geauga, OH

Significant Hazard 19 ft

Lambert Lake Dam

Geauga, OH

Low Hazard 14 ft

Bridge Creek Dam

Geauga, OH

High Hazard 40 ft

Cardinal Lakes Dam

Geauga, OH

Low Hazard 24 ft

East Branch Reservoir Dam

Geauga, OH

High Hazard 34 ft

Shangri-La Ski Club Lake Dam

Geauga, OH

Significant Hazard 25 ft

Brown Lake Dam

Geauga, OH

Significant Hazard 23 ft

Schloss Pond Dam

Geauga, OH

High Hazard 36 ft

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the hazard classification of Giel Lake Dam?

Giel 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 Giel Lake Dam?

Giel Lake Dam is owned by Michael & Carrie Giel (Private). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.

What is the primary purpose of Giel Lake Dam?

Giel 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 Giel Lake Dam?

Giel Lake Dam has a dam height of 15 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 Giel Lake Dam last inspected?

Giel Lake Dam was last inspected on October 21, 2021. 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.