Leatherwood Lake Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Leatherwood Lake Dam, also known as Camp Seneca Lake, is a private dam located in Guernsey, Ohio.


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Summary

Built in 1972 by the USDA NRCS, this earth dam stands at a height of 12.3 feet and has a length of 2500 feet, with a storage capacity of 310 acre-feet. The primary purpose of this dam is for recreation, providing a surface area of 23 acres for outdoor activities.

Regulated by the Department of Natural Resources in Ohio, Leatherwood Lake Dam has a significant hazard potential but is currently in satisfactory condition as of the last inspection in November 2017. Despite being uncontrolled, the spillway type is designated as "Uncontrolled" with a maximum discharge of 384 cubic feet per second. The dam's risk assessment is moderate, with a hazard potential rating of 3 on a scale of 1 to 5.

Overall, Leatherwood Lake Dam serves as a vital structure for recreational purposes in the area while also managing water resources effectively. Climate and water resource enthusiasts will find this dam's design and management practices intriguing, as it plays a crucial role in the local ecosystem and provides a safe and enjoyable environment for outdoor activities.

Year Completed

1972

Dam Length

2500

Dam Height

12.3

River Or Stream

TRIBUTARY TO SENECA FORK WILLIS CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

23

Drainage Area

0.14

Nid Storage

310

Outlet Gates

Uncontrolled

Hazard Potential

Significant

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

12
       
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.