Lake Choctaw Dam in Lafayette, Ohio, stands as a testament to engineering excellence and environmental stewardship.
Wind
Humidity
Built in 1964 by the Ralph L Woolpert Co., Consulting Engineers, this private-owned earth dam on Deer Creek serves primarily for recreation, offering a serene retreat for water resource and climate enthusiasts. With a height of 42 feet and a length of 925 feet, the dam creates a reservoir with a storage capacity of 7,783 acre-feet and a surface area of 247 acres.
Managed by the Ohio Department of Natural Resources, the dam undergoes regular inspections to ensure its safety and functionality. The last assessment in October 2017 deemed the structure to be in satisfactory condition, despite its high hazard potential. In case of emergencies, an Emergency Action Plan is in place, with the most recent revision in June 2020. With its important role in flood control and water storage, Lake Choctaw Dam highlights the crucial intersection between infrastructure development and environmental conservation.
Situated in Madison County, Ohio, Lake Choctaw Dam not only provides a picturesque backdrop for outdoor activities but also serves as a vital component of the local ecosystem. With its strategic location along Deer Creek and a drainage area of 25.3 square miles, the dam plays a crucial role in managing water flow and mitigating flood risks in the surrounding region. As climate change continues to impact water resources, the careful monitoring and maintenance of structures like Lake Choctaw Dam are essential to ensure sustainable water management practices for future generations.
Year Completed |
1964 |
Dam Length |
925 |
Dam Height |
42 |
River Or Stream |
DEER CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
247 |
Drainage Area |
25.3 |
Nid Storage |
7783 |
Hazard Potential |
High |
Nid Height |
42 |