Lake Alma Dam Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 6, 2025
Lake Alma Dam, located in Vinton County, Ohio, is a state-owned structure managed by the Department of Natural Resources.
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Summary
Built in 1902, this earth dam stands at a height of 16.3 feet and spans 1500 feet in length, creating a reservoir with a maximum storage capacity of 490.4 acre-feet. The primary purpose of Lake Alma Dam is for recreation, offering a surface area of 65 acres for activities such as boating, fishing, and picnicking.
Despite its recreational appeal, Lake Alma Dam poses a high hazard potential and is currently rated in poor condition, with the last inspection conducted in November 2016. The dam is regulated, permitted, inspected, and enforced by the state authorities, ensuring compliance with safety standards. Emergency action plans are in place, with periodic reviews to meet guidelines and ensure public safety in case of a potential failure. With its scenic location and essential role in water resource management, Lake Alma Dam serves as a vital asset for the City of Wellston and the surrounding community.
As climate change continues to impact water resources and infrastructure, the maintenance and rehabilitation of dams like Lake Alma become increasingly crucial. With proper risk assessment, management measures, and regular inspections, the dam can continue to provide recreational opportunities while safeguarding against potential hazards. The collaboration between state and local agencies, as well as the involvement of the community, will be essential in ensuring the long-term resilience and safety of Lake Alma Dam for future generations of water resource and climate enthusiasts.
Year Completed |
1902 |
Dam Length |
1500 |
Dam Height |
16.3 |
River Or Stream |
TRIBUTARY TO LITTLE RACCOON CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
65 |
Drainage Area |
0.71 |
Nid Storage |
490.4 |
Hazard Potential |
High |
Nid Height |
16 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Little Raccoon Creek Near Ewington Oh
|
18cfs |
Raccoon Creek Near Bolin Mills Oh
|
47cfs |
Scioto River At Higby Oh
|
1800cfs |
Raccoon Creek At Adamsville Oh
|
138cfs |
Hocking River At Athens Oh
|
205cfs |
Monday Creek At Doanville Oh
|
48cfs |
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.
Lake Alma Dam
Wellston Wildlife Area
Zaleski State Forest
Lake Katherine Nature Preserve