Lake Hope Dam
Key Takeaway
Lake Hope Dam is classified as significant hazard in Ohio. It was completed in 1939 and is 87 years old. Its primary use is recreation. Significant hazard means failure could cause economic or environmental damage. Learn more.
Physical Details
| Dam Height | 34 ft (taller than 71.7% in OH) |
| Dam Length | 750 ft |
| Dam Type | Earth |
| Max Storage | 2.5K acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 1.0K acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 130 acres |
| Drainage Area | 10 sq mi |
| Max Discharge | 21,747 cfs |
| Year Completed | 1939 (87 years old) |
| NID ID | OH00072 |
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 Parks & Watercraft
State Government
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Significant Hazard 28 ftFrequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Lake Hope Dam?
Lake Hope 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 Hope Dam?
Lake Hope Dam is owned by ODNR, Division of Parks & Watercraft (State Government). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Lake Hope Dam built?
Lake Hope Dam was completed in 1939, making it 87 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 Hope Dam?
Lake Hope 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 Hope Dam?
Lake Hope Dam has a dam height of 34 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 Hope Dam last inspected?
Lake Hope Dam was last inspected on May 13, 2021. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.