Lake `C' Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Lake `C' Dam, located in Montpelier, Ohio, is a privately owned structure with a primary purpose of recreation.


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Summary

Built in 1971 by the USDA NRCS, this earth dam stands at a height of 36.1 feet with a length of 515 feet. The dam has a storage capacity of 204.5 acre-feet, providing a surface area of 13.2 acres for recreational activities such as fishing and boating.

Managed by the Department of Natural Resources in Ohio, Lake `C' Dam is regulated and inspected regularly to ensure public safety. Despite its low hazard potential and fair condition assessment, the dam poses a moderate risk level due to its proximity to the West Branch St. Joseph River. The dam's uncontrolled spillway and outlet gates require careful monitoring, and emergency action plans may need to be developed to mitigate any potential risks associated with the structure.

Overall, Lake `C' Dam serves as a vital recreational resource in Williams County, Ohio, offering opportunities for outdoor enthusiasts to enjoy the natural beauty of the area. With its historical significance and ongoing maintenance efforts, the dam remains a key component of water resource management in the region, contributing to both ecological and recreational benefits for the community.

Year Completed

1971

Dam Length

515

Dam Height

36.1

River Or Stream

TRIBUTARY TO WEST BRANCH ST. JOSEPH RIVER

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

13.2

Drainage Area

0.23

Nid Storage

204.5

Outlet Gates

Uncontrolled

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

36
       
Seasonal Comparison

Weather Forecast

Dam Data Reference

Condition Assessment

Satisfactory
No existing or potential dam safety deficiencies are recognized. Acceptable performance is expected under all loading conditions (static, hydrologic, seismic) in accordance with the minimum applicable state or federal regulatory criteria or tolerable risk guidelines.
Fair
No existing dam safety deficiencies are recognized for normal operating conditions. Rare or extreme hydrologic and/or seismic events may result in a dam safety deficiency. Risk may be in the range to take further action. Note: Rare or extreme event is defined by the regulatory agency based on their minimum
Poor A dam safety deficiency is recognized for normal operating conditions which may realistically occur. Remedial action is necessary. POOR may also be used when uncertainties exist as to critical analysis parameters which identify a potential dam safety deficiency. Investigations and studies are necessary.
Unsatisfactory
A dam safety deficiency is recognized that requires immediate or emergency remedial action for problem resolution.
Not Rated
The dam has not been inspected, is not under state or federal jurisdiction, or has been inspected but, for whatever reason, has not been rated.
Not Available
Dams for which the condition assessment is restricted to approved government users.

Hazard Potential Classification

High
Dams assigned the high hazard potential classification are those where failure or mis-operation will probably cause loss of human life.
Significant
Dams assigned the significant hazard potential classification are those dams where failure or mis-operation results in no probable loss of human life but can cause economic loss, environment damage, disruption of lifeline facilities, or impact other concerns. Significant hazard potential classification dams are often located in predominantly rural or agricultural areas but could be in areas with population and significant infrastructure.
Low
Dams assigned the low hazard potential classification are those where failure or mis-operation results in no probable loss of human life and low economic and/or environmental losses. Losses are principally limited to the owner's property.
Undetermined
Dams for which a downstream hazard potential has not been designated or is not provided.
Not Available
Dams for which the downstream hazard potential is restricted to approved government users.
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Area Campgrounds