Lake Loretta Dam

TRIBUTARY TO HOCKING RIVER· Fairfield, Ohio· Earth· 35 ft tall
Significant Hazard Recreation Local Government

Key Takeaway

Lake Loretta 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 35 ft (taller than 73.7% in OH)
Dam Length300 ft
Dam TypeEarth
Max Storage81 acre-ft
Normal Storage53 acre-ft
Surface Area5 acres
Drainage Area0 sq mi
Max Discharge433 cfs
NID IDOH01560

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: April 6, 2022
State Regulated: Yes
Regulatory Agency: Department of Natural Resources

Ownership

City of Lancaster

Local Government

Nearby Dams

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the hazard classification of Lake Loretta Dam?

Lake Loretta 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 Loretta Dam?

Lake Loretta Dam is owned by City of Lancaster (Local Government). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.

What is the primary purpose of Lake Loretta Dam?

Lake Loretta 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 Loretta Dam?

Lake Loretta Dam has a dam height of 35 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 Loretta Dam last inspected?

Lake Loretta Dam was last inspected on April 6, 2022. 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.