Knox Lake Dam
Key Takeaway
Knox Lake Dam is classified as high hazard in Ohio. It was completed in 1954 and is 72 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 | 52 ft (taller than 92.8% in OH) |
| Dam Length | 465 ft |
| Dam Type | Earth |
| Max Storage | 19.0K acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 3.1K acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 440 acres |
| Drainage Area | 30 sq mi |
| Max Discharge | 29,831 cfs |
| Year Completed | 1954 (72 years old) |
| NID ID | OH00638 |
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
ODNR, Division of Wildlife
State Government
Nearby Dams
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Low Hazard 31 ftAnjecondy Lake Dam
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Significant Hazard 29 ftCline Lake Dam
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Low Hazard 22 ftKnox Cattle Company Dam
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High Hazard 20 ftLake Viering Dam
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High Hazard 47 ftFrequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Knox Lake Dam?
Knox 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 Knox Lake Dam?
Knox Lake Dam is owned by ODNR, Division of Wildlife (State Government). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Knox Lake Dam built?
Knox Lake Dam was completed in 1954, making it 72 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 Knox Lake Dam?
Knox 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 Knox Lake Dam?
Knox Lake Dam has a dam height of 52 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 Knox Lake Dam last inspected?
Knox Lake Dam was last inspected on December 5, 2019. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.