Margaret Creek Structure No. 2 Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 28, 2025

Margaret Creek Structure No.


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Summary

2, also known as Lake Snowden, is a privately owned dam in Ohio, specifically located in Athens County. Built in 1970 by the USDA NRCS, this earth dam stands at a height of 59.7 feet and has a length of 1617 feet, serving primarily for flood risk reduction along Margaret Creek. With a storage capacity of 4816 acre-feet and a surface area of 136 acres, this structure plays a crucial role in managing water resources in the region.

Managed by the Ohio Department of Natural Resources, Margaret Creek Structure No. 2 has a state-regulated status with permits for inspection and enforcement in place. The dam's hazard potential is deemed high, yet its condition is assessed as satisfactory. Regular inspections have been conducted, with the last one in March 2017, ensuring the safety and functionality of the dam. Despite its moderate risk level, the structure remains an essential component for water management and flood control in the area.

With its stone core and soil foundation, Margaret Creek Structure No. 2 is a vital piece of infrastructure in the watershed, designed to mitigate flood risks and protect the surrounding communities. While facing potential hazards, the dam's satisfactory condition and state regulation demonstrate a commitment to water resource management and climate resilience in the region. As an integral part of the local water infrastructure, this dam serves as a crucial asset for maintaining the balance between water conservation and flood protection.

Year Completed

1970

Dam Length

1617

Dam Height

59.7

River Or Stream

MARGARET CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

136

Drainage Area

4

Nid Storage

4816

Outlet Gates

Uncontrolled

Hazard Potential

High

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

60
       
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.