Bethany Lake Dam Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 25, 2025
Bethany Lake Dam, located in Glenmont, Ohio, is a private dam with a primary purpose of recreation.
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Summary
Built in 1962 by Lester Gilbert, this Earth-type dam stands at a height of 29.4 feet and has a length of 453 feet. The dam has a storage capacity of 212.6 acre-feet, with a normal storage level of 90.9 acre-feet, covering a surface area of 12.8 acres on a drainage area of 1.12 square miles.
Managed by the Department of Natural Resources in Ohio, Bethany Lake Dam is regulated, inspected, and enforced by the state agency, ensuring its structural integrity and safety. The dam has a high hazard potential but has been assessed as satisfactory in condition as of the last inspection in October 2019. Despite the potential risk, the dam is well-maintained and poses no immediate danger, meeting regulatory guidelines and emergency preparedness standards.
Water resource and climate enthusiasts will find Bethany Lake Dam's unique location near the Black Creek tributary fascinating, offering opportunities for recreational activities while also serving as a vital infrastructure for water storage and management in the region. As a privately owned structure with state oversight and regulation, the dam represents a balance between human-made infrastructure and natural water systems, showcasing the importance of sustainable water resource management in the face of changing climate patterns and environmental challenges.
Year Completed |
1962 |
Dam Length |
453 |
Dam Height |
29.4 |
River Or Stream |
TRIBUTARY TO BLACK CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
12.8 |
Drainage Area |
1.12 |
Nid Storage |
212.6 |
Hazard Potential |
High |
Nid Height |
29 |
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.
Bethany Lake Dam