Varian Lake Dam

TRIBUTARY TO INDIAN RUN· Stark, Ohio· Built 1964· Earth· 32 ft tall
Significant Hazard Recreation Private

Key Takeaway

Varian Lake Dam is classified as significant hazard in Ohio. It was completed in 1964 and is 62 years old. Its primary use is recreation. Significant hazard means failure could cause economic or environmental damage. Learn more.

Physical Details

Dam Height 32 ft (taller than 67.5% in OH)
Dam Length545 ft
Dam TypeEarth
Max Storage62 acre-ft
Normal Storage32 acre-ft
Surface Area5 acres
Drainage Area0 sq mi
Max Discharge713 cfs
Year Completed1964 (62 years old)
NID IDOH00234

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: November 10, 2020
State Regulated: Yes
Regulatory Agency: Department of Natural Resources

Ownership

Dean Varian

Private

Nearby Dams

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the hazard classification of Varian Lake Dam?

Varian 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 Varian Lake Dam?

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

When was Varian Lake Dam built?

Varian Lake Dam was completed in 1964, making it 62 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 Varian Lake Dam?

Varian 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 Varian Lake Dam?

Varian Lake Dam has a dam height of 32 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 Varian Lake Dam last inspected?

Varian Lake Dam was last inspected on November 10, 2020. 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.