Indian Lakes Rec. Area Lower Lake Dam Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 5, 2025
The Indian Lakes Rec.
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Summary
Area Lower Lake Dam is a vital structure situated in Guernsey, Ohio, serving as a recreational oasis for water resource and climate enthusiasts. Constructed in 1962, this private-owned earth dam stands at a height of 19 feet and spans 405 feet in length, providing a storage capacity of 133 acre-feet. The dam's primary purpose is for recreation, offering a surface area of 11.4 acres and a drainage area of 0.73 square miles, with a maximum discharge capacity of 3140 cubic feet per second.
Despite its significance in providing recreational opportunities, the Lower Lake Dam exhibits a high hazard potential and poor condition assessment, last inspected in September 2017. The dam is regulated by the Department of Natural Resources in Ohio and undergoes regular state inspections, permitting, and enforcement activities to ensure public safety and environmental protection. With its location near the tributary to Wills Creek, the dam contributes to the local ecosystem while offering a picturesque setting for outdoor activities.
As an integral part of the Indian Lakes Recreational Area, the Lower Lake Dam serves as a focal point for water-based activities and wildlife habitat, attracting visitors seeking a tranquil escape in nature. Despite its current condition assessment, efforts are likely underway to address any safety concerns and enhance the dam's resilience to meet regulatory standards and ensure sustainable water management practices for future generations to enjoy.
Year Completed |
1962 |
Dam Length |
405 |
Dam Height |
19 |
River Or Stream |
TRIBUTARY TO WILLS CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
11.4 |
Drainage Area |
0.73 |
Nid Storage |
133 |
Hazard Potential |
High |
Nid Height |
19 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Dam Data Reference
Condition Assessment
SatisfactoryNo 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
HighDams 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.
Indian Lakes Rec. Area Lower Lake Dam
US 22 Wildlife Acess Ramp