Lake Forest Dam

BRANDYWINE CREEK· Summit, Ohio· Built 1952· Earth· 16 ft tall
Significant Hazard Recreation Private

Key Takeaway

Lake Forest Dam is classified as significant hazard in Ohio. It was completed in 1952 and is 74 years old. Its primary use is recreation. Significant hazard means failure could cause economic or environmental damage. Learn more.

Physical Details

Dam Height 16 ft (taller than 15.8% in OH)
Dam Length625 ft
Dam TypeEarth
Max Storage405 acre-ft
Normal Storage144 acre-ft
Surface Area42 acres
Drainage Area5 sq mi
Max Discharge4,887 cfs
Year Completed1952 (74 years old)
NID IDOH00496

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: Yes
Last Inspection: December 8, 2021
State Regulated: Yes
Regulatory Agency: Department of Natural Resources

Ownership

Lake Forest Country Club

Private

Nearby Dams

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the hazard classification of Lake Forest Dam?

Lake Forest 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 Lake Forest Dam?

Lake Forest Dam is owned by Lake Forest Country Club (Private). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.

When was Lake Forest Dam built?

Lake Forest Dam was completed in 1952, making it 74 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 Lake Forest Dam?

Lake Forest 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 Lake Forest Dam?

Lake Forest Dam has a dam height of 16 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 Lake Forest Dam last inspected?

Lake Forest Dam was last inspected on December 8, 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.