Charles Mill Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Charles Mill Dam, located in Ashland, Ohio, along the Black Fork of the Mohican River, was completed in 1936 by the US Army Corps of Engineers for flood risk reduction.


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Summary

This earth dam, with a hydraulic height of 38 feet and a structural height of 52 feet, spans 1390 feet and has a storage capacity of 88,000 acre-feet. The dam also serves purposes such as fish and wildlife pond creation and recreational activities.

Despite its high hazard potential, the dam is well-managed by the US Army Corps of Engineers, with regular inspections and emergency preparedness measures in place. The agency continuously monitors the dam's condition and engages with local emergency managers to develop response plans in case of an emergency. The dam's risk management measures include prioritizing activities to mitigate risks, updating the emergency action plan regularly, and performing necessary maintenance and repairs to ensure the dam's proper functioning.

In the face of increasing climate variability and severe weather events, the Charles Mill Dam plays a crucial role in managing water levels and reducing flood risks in the region. As part of the USACE's ongoing efforts to address flood risks associated with dams, the dam serves as a vital resource for water resource and climate enthusiasts interested in sustainable water management practices.

Year Completed

1936

Dam Length

1390

River Or Stream

BLACK FORK OF MOHICAN RIVER

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

1350

Hydraulic Height

38

Drainage Area

215

Nid Storage

88000

Structural Height

52

Outlet Gates

Slide (sluice gate) - 5

Hazard Potential

High

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

52
       
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.